vapore

Vapore is the Italian term for steam or vapor. In science, a vapor refers to the gaseous phase of a substance that is typically liquid or solid at room temperature. Water vapor, the most common example, is the gaseous form of water.

In physical terms, a vapor consists of molecules dispersed in a gas phase. Vapor behavior is governed by temperature, pressure, and phase transitions. Evaporation and boiling describe the process by which a liquid becomes vapor; condensation is the reverse. At a given temperature and pressure, a vapor can be in equilibrium with its liquid or solid phase, a condition described by concepts such as saturated vapor and dry steam. Vapor pressure is a key property that measures a substance’s tendency to vaporize and is different from atmospheric pressure.

Vapor is central to many technologies and processes. Steam power and steam turbines convert thermal energy into mechanical energy in power plants. In heating, cooking, sterilization, and industrial distillation, steam serves as a medium for transfer of energy or mass. Vapor pressures and phase diagrams are essential in chemical engineering and meteorology, where water vapor contributes to humidity and climate dynamics.

Safety and efficiency considerations are important in handling vapor. High-temperature steam can cause severe burns, and the management of condensation affects energy use and system design. The term vapore therefore encompasses both a basic physical concept and a practical utility across science, engineering, and daily life.