Sublimation: Definition, Examples and Uses in Science and Beyond

Sublimation

the process in which a solid changes directly to a gas

Sublimation is a process in which a solid substance changes directly into a gas without going through the liquid state. In this process, the solid substance absorbs heat energy from its surroundings to transform into a gaseous state.

Examples of sublimation:

1. Dry ice – When dry ice (solid carbon dioxide) is exposed to normal atmospheric pressure, it goes through sublimation and transforms into carbon dioxide gas.

2. Camphor – Camphor is a solid substance that sublimes at room temperature, releasing a strong odor.

3. Snow – When snow is exposed to sunlight or warmer temperatures, it undergoes sublimation, and the snowflakes evaporate directly into water vapor, without turning into liquid water.

Uses of sublimation:

1. Cleaning – Sublimation is used in many cleaning processes, as it is a more gentle method than chemical cleaning. For example, dry ice blasting is an eco-friendly way to remove dirt and debris without creating waste products.

2. Food preservation – Sublimation is used to preserve foods, by removing moisture from them. Freeze-dried foods are common examples of sublimated products, like instant coffee or soups.

3. Scientific research – Sublimation is a widely used method in scientific research to purify and isolate different chemical compounds. It is a common technique in chemistry labs for separating mixtures or isolating pure substances.

More Answers:

Petrified Wood: A Fascinating Example of Fossilization Through Permineralization and Its Use in Uncovering Earth’s Past.
Understanding the Types of Erosion and Their Impact on the Environment and Human Activities
Unlocking the Science of Precipitation: Forms, Importance, and Impact on the World’s Water Cycle.

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