Volatilize: meaning, definitions and examples
💨
volatilize
[ ˈvɑː.lə.tɪ.laɪz ]
scientific process
To volatilize means to convert a substance into a vapor or gaseous state. This process often occurs when heat is applied, allowing compounds to escape from a liquid or solid form. In chemistry, this term is frequently used to describe the phase change of a material, often involving liquids turning into gases. Volatilization can also refer to the loss of volatile components in a mixture, which is crucial in various industrial processes and laboratory techniques.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The water in the experiment began to volatilize when heated.
- During the distillation process, certain chemicals volatilize at different temperatures.
- To improve efficiency, it is necessary to volatilize the excess solvents.
- The reaction caused the reactant to volatilize rapidly.
Etymology
The term 'volatilize' originates from the late Latin word 'volatilis,' which means 'fleeting, flying, or light.' It evolved in the English language during the mid-19th century, primarily in the context of chemistry and physics. Early scientists used the term to describe the behavior of certain substances that easily transitioned into vapor at relatively low temperatures. This characteristic of 'volatility' became a significant focus in both theoretical and applied sciences, especially in fields like chemistry, material science, and environmental studies, where understanding the behavior of substances under varying conditions is essential.