Gases: meaning, definitions and examples

Gases are used in a scientific or technical context to refer to substances in their gaseous state, often when discussing chemistry or physics.

• Oxygen and nitrogen are both gases that compose the Earth's atmosphere

Vapors refer to the gaseous state of a substance that is normally liquid or solid at room temperature. This term is often used in scientific contexts and in discussions about evaporation.

• Water vapors are responsible for the formation of clouds

Fumes are usually used in a negative context to refer to strong, unpleasant, and often hazardous gases or vapors. They are commonly associated with pollution or industrial processes.

• The car's exhaust fumes are harmful to the environment

Air is typically used to refer to the invisible mixture of gases that we breathe. It is often used in everyday conversation.

• It's important to get some fresh air every day

Gases are used in scientific or technical contexts to refer to any state of matter where molecules move freely. It is often used when talking about chemistry or physics.

• Oxygen and nitrogen are gases present in the atmosphere
• Helium is a gas used to fill balloons

Vapors refer to the gaseous state of a substance that is generally liquid or solid at room temperature. Used in contexts like chemistry, medicine, and weather.

• Water vapor is a key component in the water cycle
• The vapors from the medication help relieve nasal congestion

Fumes often refer to strong, unpleasant, and possibly harmful gases released from substances. It's commonly used in negative contexts, such as pollution or smoke.

• The car exhaust fumes are harmful to health
• The kitchen filled with fumes after the cooking oil caught fire

Air is the mixture of gases that we breathe every day. It's used in general contexts related to the atmosphere and breathable environment.

• The air is fresh and clean in the mountains
• Please open the window to get some fresh air