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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Sublimation and Deposition?

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Sublimation and deposition are both phase changes in matter, but they involve different processes:

  • Sublimation is the change of state from a solid to a gas, without passing through the liquid state. An example of sublimation is the transformation of solid dry ice (frozen carbon dioxide) into carbon dioxide gas.
  • Deposition is the change of state from a gas to a solid. An example of deposition is the formation of frost on a cold window.

In summary, the main difference between sublimation and deposition is:

  • Sublimation occurs when a solid directly converts to a gas, bypassing the liquid phase.
  • Deposition occurs when a gas directly converts to a solid, bypassing the liquid phase.
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  • What is the Difference Between Sublimation and Deposition?
  • Comparative Table: Sublimation vs Deposition

    • Comparative Table: Sublimation vs Deposition

    The difference between sublimation and deposition can be summarized in the following table:

    Process Definition Direction Energy Change Examples
    Sublimation The transition of a substance from solid to gas without going through the liquid phase. Solid to Gas Endothermic Dry ice, naphthalene, camphor.
    Deposition The transition of a substance from gas to solid without going through the liquid phase. Gas to Solid Exothermic Formation of ice or frost from water vapor.

    Sublimation is the process by which molecules go directly from solid to the vapor or gas phase, while deposition is the process by which molecules go directly from the gas phase into the solid phase. Both processes do not involve a liquid phase.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.