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Condensate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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condensate

[kənˈdɛn.seɪt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

physical matter

Condensate refers to a substance that has changed from a gas to a liquid state, usually as a result of cooling or compression. In various scientific and industrial contexts, condensate can also refer to liquids that are produced during processes like gas extraction or distillation. The term is often used in thermodynamics and fluid dynamics to describe the phase transition of matter. It is an essential concept in understanding how different materials behave under varying temperature and pressure conditions.

Synonyms

droplet, fluid, liquid.

Examples of usage

  • The condensate collected in the chamber was analyzed for impurities.
  • As the steam cooled, it formed condensate that dripped from the pipes.
  • During the extraction process, condensate is separated from the gas.
  • The air conditioning unit produces condensate as it cools the air.
Context #2 | Verb

process action

To condensate means to cause a substance to change from a gas to a liquid state, typically through cooling or compression methods. This process plays a critical role in various applications, including refrigeration, distillation, and even natural weather phenomena. In scientific research, understanding how to effectively condensate materials can lead to more efficient industrial processes. The term may also apply to the way in which materials or vapors collect and form droplets.

Synonyms

compress, concentrate, precipitate.

Examples of usage

  • The air cooled down, causing the water vapor to condensate.
  • In the laboratory, the chemist needed to condensate the gas for analysis.
  • As the temperature fell, the steam began to condensate into droplets.
  • We used a condenser to help condensate the substances in the reaction.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Condensation is a key process in the water cycle, crucial for rain formation as water vapor cools in the atmosphere.
  • In thermodynamics, condensate forms when a gas is cooled below its dew point, enabling energy transfer in systems like air conditioners.
  • Condensates are commonly seen on cold surfaces, like the exterior of a beverage can taken out of the fridge, due to temperature differences.

Technology

  • In the petrochemical industry, condensate refers to hydrocarbons that are in gas form under high pressure but can become liquid under standard conditions.
  • Some power plants utilize condensate return systems to maximize energy efficiency by reusing steam that condenses back into water.
  • In HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems, condensate management is critical to prevent water damage and ensure system efficiency.

Everyday Examples

  • The moisture on your bathroom mirror after a hot shower is a common example of condensate formed by evaporating water cooling down.
  • Fog is essentially a collection of tiny droplets formed from the condensation of water vapor when temperatures drop.
  • When cooking pasta, the steam that rises and condenses on the lid of the pot becomes droplets that fall back into the cooking water.

Environmental Impact

  • Condensate can play a role in climate change, as the water vapor that condenses in the atmosphere contributes to the greenhouse effect.
  • Water vapor is a potent greenhouse gas, and understanding its condensation helps scientists predict weather patterns and climate changes.
  • Efficient condensation processes in nature can enhance rainfall patterns, impacting agriculture and water resource management.

Origin of 'condensate'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'condensare,' meaning 'to make denser or thicker.'
  • It was first used in scientific contexts in the 19th century, particularly in chemistry and physics.
  • The prefix 'con-' suggests 'together,' indicating the process of gas particles coming together to form liquid.

The word 'condensate' originates from the Latin word 'condensare', which means 'to thicken or make dense'. The prefix 'con-' means 'together' or 'with', while 'densa' is derived from the word 'densus', meaning 'thick'. The term was first introduced in the context of physical science in the early 19th century as scientists began exploring the properties of gases and the behavior of materials under varying temperatures and pressures. It was particularly important during the development of thermodynamics and later applied in the fields of physical chemistry and engineering. The usage of 'condensate' expanded with advancements in technology, particularly in relation to the oil and gas industry, where it describes natural gas liquids separated from gas streams. Today, 'condensate' commonly appears in various scientific disciplines, including meteorology, where it describes moisture in the atmosphere.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,743, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.