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Deliquescence is a phenomenon observed in certain chemical substances, known as deliquescent materials, where they absorb moisture from the atmosphere to such an extent that they dissolve in the absorbed water, forming a solution. This process occurs when the vapor pressure of the solution formed by the substance and the absorbed water is lower than the partial pressure of water vapor in the surrounding atmosphere. Essentially, the substance has a strong affinity for water and will continue to absorb it until the concentration of the solution is low enough for its vapor pressure to equal that of the ambient air.

Common examples of deliquescent substances include calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, and zinc chloride. These salts are often used as desiccants, materials that promote drying, because of their ability to absorb water. However, their deliquescent nature also means they must be stored in airtight containers to prevent them from liquefying. This property can be both useful and problematic, depending on the application. In industry, deliquescence is a factor considered in the storage and handling of many chemicals, as well as in the design of certain industrial processes. The rate of deliquescence can be influenced by factors such as temperature, humidity, and the surface area of the material.