Latent heat energy refers to the heat energy that is absorbed or released during a phase change of a substance without a corresponding change in temperature. It is associated with the transition between different states of matter, such as melting, freezing, vaporization, and condensation.
The mathematical expression for latent heat (Q) can be written as follows:
Q=m⋅L
where:
- Q is the latent heat,
- m is the mass of the substance undergoing a phase change,
- L is the specific latent heat for that particular substance.
Examples in Daily Life
- Melting Ice: When ice melts, it absorbs latent heat from its surroundings.
- Boiling Water: When water boils, it absorbs latent heat, turning into steam.
- Condensation on a Glass: When water vapor in the air comes into contact with a cold glass, it releases latent heat, causing condensation.
- Freezing Popsicle: When you freeze a liquid to make a popsicle, it releases latent heat.
- Sweating: When you sweat, the body releases latent heat as the sweat evaporates, cooling the skin.
