Dampfübersättigung

Dampfübersättigung refers to a state where the amount of water vapor in the air exceeds the equilibrium saturation vapor pressure at a given temperature. This means the air is holding more moisture than it normally could at that temperature. In a supersaturated state, the air is unstable. Any disturbance, such as the presence of condensation nuclei (tiny particles like dust or salt), can trigger the excess water vapor to condense into liquid water droplets or ice crystals. This condensation process is fundamental to the formation of clouds and fog. If the temperature is below freezing, supersaturation can lead to the formation of ice crystals directly from vapor, a process known as deposition. Dampfübersättigung is a transient state; once condensation occurs, the air returns to saturation or even becomes unsaturated as water leaves the vapor phase. The degree of supersaturation can vary, with higher levels indicating a greater potential for rapid condensation. Understanding this phenomenon is crucial in meteorology for predicting weather patterns, particularly precipitation.