liquefy

Liquefy is a verb meaning to cause something to become a liquid. The term is used in several contexts: a solid can be melted into a liquid when heated; a gas can be turned into a liquid by cooling or by increasing pressure (condensation or liquefaction); a liquid can also be produced or manipulated in processes that change its viscosity or state.

In scientific and industrial use, liquefaction refers to methods that convert gases into liquids. This often involves cryogenic cooling, high-pressure equipment, or both. Examples include the production of liquid oxygen or liquid nitrogen, as well as the liquefaction of natural gas for storage and transport. Liquefaction processes are energy-intensive and require careful handling due to low temperatures and high pressures involved.

Liquefied natural gas (LNG) is a prominent application of gas liquefaction. Natural gas is cooled to about −162 degrees Celsius, turning it into a colorless, low-density liquid suitable for tanker transport and regasification at import terminals. LNG allows easier long-distance transport of a gas that is highly voluminous in its gaseous form.

In geology, liquefaction describes a distinct phenomenon occurring during earthquakes. Saturated, unconsolidated soils can lose strength and behave like liquids when seismic shaking raises pore water pressure. This can undermine foundations and structures, necessitating engineering measures to mitigate risk.

In everyday language, liquefy may also describe turning foods or substances into a liquid form, such as blending or heating ingredients to produce a smooth liquid.