What is required to convert a liquid into a gas?

To convert a liquid into a gas, latent heat is required. Latent heat refers to the amount of heat energy needed to change a substance from one state to another without changing its temperature. In the case of liquids turning into gases, this energy is needed to overcome the intermolecular forces that hold the liquid together. When sufficient heat is applied, the molecules of the liquid gain enough energy to break free from the liquid state and enter the gas phase. This process can be observed during boiling, where the latent heat of vaporization is absorbed by the liquid and is responsible for the transition to gas.

In contrast, increased pressure typically favors the liquid state, while decreased temperature would condense gases into liquids rather than promote vaporization. Mechanical work alone does not suffice to initiate the phase change from liquid to gas without the addition of heat energy. Thus, the requirement of latent heat is essential for the conversion of a liquid into a gas.