At what point does condensation occur in relation to temperature?

Condensation occurs when a gas transitions to a liquid state. This process typically happens when the gas is cooled to its dew point temperature, which is the temperature at which the vapor pressure equals the atmospheric pressure, leading to the formation of liquid. During this transition, the energy in the form of heat is released, causing the molecules to slow down and come closer together, resulting in the formation of liquid droplets.

In practical applications, such as respiratory care, understanding condensation is crucial. For instance, in humidifying gases delivered to patients, it's essential to manage air temperature to avoid unintended condensation, which can affect the delivery of oxygen and other therapeutic gases.