Vaporization

Vaporization is the process by which a substance changes from a liquid or solid state into a vapor or gas. It occurs when molecules gain enough energy—usually from heat—to overcome the forces holding them together, allowing them to enter the gaseous phase. There are two types: evaporation, which happens at the surface of a liquid at temperatures below its boiling point, and boiling, which involves rapid vaporization throughout the liquid at its boiling temperature. Vaporization is a common process in nature and industry, important for processes like boiling water, evaporation of sweat, and in engines.