Sublimation vs Deposition — Difference (with Table & FAQs)
Sublimation vs Deposition compared side by side — a 6-row comparison table, 4 key points and 3 exam FAQs. Class 9 Chemistry, free and no sign-up.
TL;DR: Sublimation vs Deposition compared side by side — a 6-row comparison table, 4 key points and 3 exam FAQs. Class 9 Chemistry, free and no sign-up.
Written & reviewed by the Syllab.in Academic Team (CBSE/NCERT subject experts) · Updated
The main difference between Sublimation and Deposition: Sublimation is the conversion of solid directly to vapor without passing through the liquid state, while deposition is the conversion of vapor directly to
Sublimation vs Deposition — Comparison Table
| Basis | Sublimation | Deposition |
|---|---|---|
| Initial State | Starts as solid | Starts as vapor |
| Final State | Becomes vapor | Becomes solid |
| Intermediate Phase | Skips liquid phase | Skips liquid phase |
| Temperature Required | Below melting point but needs heat | Below freezing point and releases heat |
| Example | Dry ice, naphthalene balls, iodine | Frost formation, snow formation without melting |
| Reverse Process | Reverse of deposition | Reverse of sublimation |
Key Points
- Sublimation and deposition are reverse processes of each other
- Dry ice sublimes at -78 degrees Celsius under atmospheric pressure
- Deposition occurs naturally during frost formation and snowfall
- Both processes occur due to pressure and temperature conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between sublimation and deposition?
They are opposite changes of state that skip the liquid stage. Sublimation is solid changing directly to gas; deposition is gas changing directly to solid.
Give an everyday example of each.
Camphor or naphthalene balls shrinking away without leaving a puddle is sublimation. Frost forming directly on a cold surface from water vapour in the air is deposition.
Does sublimation absorb or release heat?
Sublimation absorbs heat, because the particles need energy to break free of the solid entirely. Deposition releases that heat again as the gas particles settle into the fixed arrangement of a solid.