What is the Difference Between Mist and Steam?

The main difference between mist and steam lies in their states and properties:

• Mist: Mist is a collection of tiny water droplets suspended in the air, usually formed when water condenses and collects in the form of small droplets that do not fall to the ground due to their small size. Mist can occur naturally, such as on cold mornings when water droplets form on car windshields, or when water is heated and then cooled, as in the case of a hot shower.
• Steam: Steam is water in its gaseous state, formed when water is heated to a temperature above its boiling point (100 degrees Celsius at normal atmospheric pressure). Steam is invisible and contains a large amount of latent energy, which is released when it condenses back into water. Steam is often used as a source of energy in various applications, such as power generation and industrial processes.

In summary, mist is a collection of small water droplets in the air, while steam is water in its gaseous state. The two have distinct properties and applications, with mist being a harmless droplet state and steam possessing significant energy that can be utilized for various purposes.

Comparative Table: Mist vs Steam

Here is a table highlighting the differences between mist and steam:

In summary, mist is water in its liquid state, formed by tiny droplets suspended in the air, while steam is water in its gaseous state, generated by heating water to its boiling point or beyond. Mist is harmless and often used in humidifiers, whereas steam contains latent energy and can be dangerous if not handled properly.