What is 'latent heat'?

Latent heat refers to the amount of heat energy that is absorbed or released by a substance during a change of state, such as from solid to liquid, or liquid to gas, without a change in temperature. This energy is crucial in processes like melting, boiling, and condensation, as it facilitates the phase transition of materials. For example, when ice melts to form water, it absorbs latent heat from its surroundings, which allows it to change from a solid to a liquid without a temperature increase.

Understanding latent heat is essential in meteorology since it plays a significant role in weather phenomena. When water vapor condenses into droplets, latent heat is released, warming the surrounding air and contributing to cloud formation and various weather patterns. This concept is fundamental in explaining how energy dynamics in the atmosphere influence weather conditions and the development of storms.

The other options do not accurately define latent heat. For instance, heat that can be felt refers to sensible heat, and heat lost to the atmosphere or absorbed by solid materials do not directly relate to the concept of latent heat, which specifically pertains to energy changes during state transitions.