noun
- the initial process by which a new phase or structure begins to form from a uniform phase, typically involving the formation of small clusters that serve as centers for further growth
Usage: scientific; physics; chemistry
Examples
- Ice crystals form through nucleation when water vapor condenses around dust particles.
- The nucleation of bubbles in boiling water begins at imperfections on the container’s surface.
- Scientists study nucleation to understand how crystals grow in solutions.
- Cloud formation depends on nucleation sites provided by tiny particles in the atmosphere.
- The nucleation process determines the size and distribution of crystals in metals.
- Researchers observed nucleation occurring at specific temperature and pressure conditions.