What process happens when a liquid’s temperature reaches its boiling point?
A) Condensation
B) Freezing
C) Evaporation
D) Vaporization
Answer:
D) Vaporization
Explanation:
When a liquid’s temperature reaches its boiling point, it undergoes a phase transition called vaporization. During vaporization, the liquid changes into its gaseous state, forming vapor or gas. This process occurs as the thermal energy supplied to the liquid overcomes the intermolecular forces holding the liquid molecules together. It’s important to note that vaporization is a phase change from liquid to gas, whereas evaporation specifically refers to the gradual conversion of a liquid into vapor at its surface, usually at temperatures below its boiling point.