Which of the following best describes what occurs during condensation?

• A. A gas transforms into a liquid as it loses energy.
• B. A liquid transforms into a solid as it loses energy.
• C. A liquid transforms into a gas as it gains energy.
• D. A solid transforms directly into a gas without passing through the liquid phase.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the meaning of condensation in terms of phase changes: condensation is the process where a substance changes from the gas phase to the liquid phase.
2. Recall that phase changes involve energy transfer; specifically, condensation occurs when a gas loses energy (usually in the form of heat) and particles slow down enough to come closer together and form a liquid.
3. Compare condensation with other phase changes: freezing (liquid to solid), vaporization (liquid to gas), and sublimation (solid to gas without liquid phase).
4. Identify that condensation is distinct because it involves a gas turning into a liquid, not a liquid turning into a solid or a solid turning directly into a gas.
5. Conclude that the best description of condensation is 'A gas transforms into a liquid as it loses energy.'