What is the definition of latent heat?

Latent heat is defined as the heat absorbed or released by a substance during a phase change without a change in temperature. This process occurs when a material transitions between solid, liquid, and gaseous states. For example, when ice melts into water, it absorbs a specific amount of heat (latent heat of fusion) without changing its temperature. Conversely, when water vapor condenses back into liquid water, it releases latent heat (latent heat of vaporization) while still maintaining a constant temperature until the phase change is complete. This crucial concept highlights how energy is involved in changing the state of matter, emphasizing that the temperature remains constant during these transformations. Understanding latent heat is essential in thermodynamics, as it explains the energy transfer involved in climatic phenomena, refrigeration cycles, and various industrial processes.