What is condensation? Simple and clear explanations

Condensation is the transition of water from a gaseous state (water vapor) to a liquid state (drop of water).
This physical phenomenon is omnipresent in our environment: it occurs in clouds as well as on a cold wall, a window, or even the ceiling of a storage container.

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How does condensation form?

The air always contains a certain amount of water vapor.
When this quantity exceeds a certain threshold, water molecules agglomerate to form small clusters called nuclei: this is the start of the nucleation process.

Two types of nucleation exist:

• Homogeneous nucleation: very rare, it only involves water molecules between them.
  
  
• Heterogeneous nucleation: the most common, it occurs in contact with a solid support such as dust, pollen, or a cold surface.
  
  

👉 Example:

• In clouds, raindrops form around tiny solid particles.
  
  
• On plants or objects, it is this phenomenon that causes morning dew.

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When does condensation occur?

Condensation occurs when Relative humidity of the air reaches 100%, in other words when the air can no longer contain more water vapor.
Two situations can then trigger this phenomenon:

1. The water concentration is increasing in the ambient air.
   
   
2. The air temperature decreases, which reduces the ability of the air to contain water vapor.
   
   

This is what happens, for example, when hot, humid air comes into contact with a cold surface: the dew point temperature is reached, and small water droplets form.

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Why is condensation a problem in enclosed spaces?

In storage containers or rooms with poor ventilation, condensation can quickly become a humidity problem.
When humid air touches cold walls or ceilings, water settles in the form of drops.

Over time, this promotes:

• Corrosion of metal surfaces,
  
  
• The appearance of mold,
  
  
• The degradation of cardboard boxes or stored materials.
  
  

💡 Good control of temperature and relative humidity makes it possible to effectively limit condensation.

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In summary

Condensation is the transformation of water vapor into liquid water when the air becomes too humid or cools. It occurs everywhere: in nature, but also in enclosed environments such as buildings or containers. Understanding this phenomenon is essential to prevent humidity problems and protect sensitive surfaces.

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