When water vapor condenses to liquid water, which type of energy is primarily lost to the surroundings?

• A. Radiant energy (light)
• B. Electrical energy
• C. Thermal energy (heat)
• D. Nuclear energy

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the process: When water vapor condenses to liquid water, it undergoes a phase change from gas to liquid.
2. Recall that during condensation, molecules lose energy because they move from a higher energy state (gas) to a lower energy state (liquid).
3. Identify the type of energy involved: The energy lost during condensation is related to the heat released as the vapor cools and forms liquid water.
4. Recognize that this energy released to the surroundings is called thermal energy (heat), not radiant, electrical, or nuclear energy.
5. Conclude that the primary energy lost to the surroundings during condensation is thermal energy (heat).