nucleation

Nucleation is the initial process that starts the formation of a new phase in materials, such as the transition from liquid to solid, like ice forming in water. It involves the emergence of small clusters of atoms or molecules that act as a "nucleus" around which the larger structure can grow. Think of it like the first few drops of rain that form a droplet; once enough droplets gather, they merge and grow larger. Nucleation is important in various fields, such as chemistry, physics, and materials science, influencing processes like crystallization and boiling.