The correct option is (c) 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
Condensation is the physical process wherein water vapour (gas) transforms into liquid water. This phase change occurs when the temperature of the air falls to or below its dew point, causing the air to become saturated. The process releases latent heat of condensation into the atmosphere.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: Condensation typically occurs when warm, moist air rises, expands, and cools (adiabatic cooling). As the temperature drops, the air loses its capacity to hold water vapour, leading to the conversion of excess vapour into liquid droplets.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The formation of water vapour directly from ice (solid to gas) is known as sublimation. Conversely, the direct transition from water vapour to ice (gas to solid) is often called deposition or sublimation. Condensation specifically refers to the change from the gaseous state to the liquid state.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Clouds are visible aggregates of minute water droplets or ice crystals suspended in the atmosphere. These are formed when water vapour condenses around microscopic particles known as hygroscopic nuclei (e.g., dust, salt, smoke) at significant altitudes.
Key Takeaway
Condensation is the phase change from gas to liquid, driven by cooling and saturation. It is distinct from sublimation (solid to gas) and evaporation (liquid to gas). Clouds, fog, mist, and dew are all manifestations of condensation.