liquéfier

Liquéfier is a French verb that translates to "to liquefy" in English. It describes the process of converting a substance from a solid or gaseous state into a liquid state. This transformation can occur through various physical means, primarily by altering temperature or pressure.

In the context of temperature, liquefaction often involves heating a solid substance until it melts, or cooling a gas until it condenses into a liquid. For example, ice (solid water) liquefies into liquid water when its temperature rises above its melting point. Similarly, steam (gaseous water) liquefies into liquid water when it cools below its boiling point.

Pressure also plays a significant role in liquefaction. For gases, increasing pressure can force the molecules closer together, eventually leading to a liquid state, even without a significant temperature change. This principle is utilized in the storage and transport of gases like propane, which are liquefied under pressure.

The term "liquéfier" can be applied in various scientific and industrial contexts. It is fundamental to understanding phase transitions and is crucial in processes such as distillation, refrigeration, and the production of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG). The reverse process, converting a liquid to a solid or gas, is known as solidification or vaporization, respectively.