Difference Between Evaporation and Condensation

When we study liquids in chemistry, we tend to hear words like evaporation and condensation a lot. While these words tend to sound the same but there are totally different when it comes to the nature of the processes.

Besides, water is usually used as an example to understand these concepts.

In essence, evaporation and condensation usually refers to a state of matter or a phase change between vapour and liquids. However, there are some key differences between evaporation and condensation. You can find the differences below.

Evaporation

• By definition, evaporation is a process where water changes into vapour.
• Evaporation occurs before a liquid reaches its boiling point.
• In terms of molecular movement, when a liquid is heated or when pressure is decreased the forces of attraction between molecules is low. The liquid then evaporates to a gas.
• Evaporation can occur in all surfaces, at all times and at all places. Evaporation is frequent when the air is dry, hot and windy.
• Evaporation usually takes place in low altitudes.
• When evaporation takes place energy is consumed.

Condensation

• Condensation is the opposite process where water vapour is converted to tiny droplets of water.
• Condensation is a phase change regardless of the temperature.
• When a gas is cooled or when the pressure is increased the forces of attraction between molecules become strong. The gas then condenses to either a liquid or even a solid.
• Condensation takes place on salt, hygroscopic nuclei-pollen grains, carbon particles etc.when air temperature is decreased beyond the level of saturation.
• Condensation happens mainly at higher altitudes.
• In the process of condensation energy is released.