Phase Changes
Reference from the original Physics I textbook.
- Phase Changes
Occurs when an object changes states (Solid Liquid Gas) and vice versa.
- Related Glossary Terms
Latent Heatⓘ, Latent Heat of Fusion, Latent Heat of Vaporization
- Index
Glossary and deeper reading · 1 refreshers
These editorial refreshers supplement the reading. Definitions and examples are added guidance; original source wording and recorded answers remain in their original context.
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Latent heat
Specific latent heat is the energy transferred per unit mass during a specified phase change at the stated conditions. During an ideal equilibrium phase change at constant pressure, energy can change microscopic arrangement while temperature stays constant. For example, melting ice requires energy even while an ice–water mixture remains at its melting temperature.