volatiles

Volatiles are substances characterized by a high tendency to vaporize under given conditions, typically possessing a high vapor pressure and low boiling points at room temperature. The volatility of a substance is influenced by temperature, pressure, and intermolecular forces; volatility generally decreases as boiling point increases.

In chemistry, volatiles include many inorganic and organic compounds that readily enter the gas phase. Water, carbon dioxide, ammonia, hydrogen sulfide, methane, and various hydrocarbons are common examples. Volatility is a key parameter in distillation, drying, and emission control.

In geology and geochemistry, volatiles refer to components that degas from rocks and magmas. Water, carbon dioxide, sulfur species, chlorine, and fluorine are principal volatiles that influence magma melting, viscosity, crystallization, and eruptive behavior. The presence and behavior of volatiles also affect ore formation and planetary atmospheres.

In planetary science, volatiles are essential in shaping atmospheres and surfaces. Ices such as water, carbon dioxide, methane, and ammonia sublimate or outgas as bodies approach the Sun or heat up, contributing to cometary activity and planetary atmospheres.

In environmental health and industry, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) comprise carbon-containing volatiles that evaporate at room temperature and contribute to air pollution and indoor air quality concerns. Common VOCs include solvents like benzene, toluene, and acetone.

Overall, volatile behavior is defined by a substance's tendency to vaporize, governed by vapor pressure and boiling point, and has broad relevance across chemistry, Earth science, planetary science, and environmental regulation.