Phase change — Science definition
A physical change in which a substance moves between the solid, liquid, and gas states without becoming a new substance.
Where it is taught
- Kinetic Molecular Theory & Phase Changes — States of Matter & Gases, Physical Science: Chemistry, Grade 11
In use
Add or remove enough energy and a substance flips between states in a phase change.
Kinetic Molecular Theory & Phase Changes
Questions using phase change
Problem 1
Which phase change is endothermic (absorbs energy)?
- deposition
- condensation
- freezing
- sublimation
Answer and explanation
sublimation
Sublimation (solid to gas) absorbs energy; condensation, freezing, and deposition all release it.
Taught alongside
- kinetic molecular theory (KMT)
- kinetic energy
- heating curve
- heat of fusion
- heat of vaporization
- phase diagram
- sublimation