What is the term for the energy lost when water molecules form ice crystals?

The term for the energy lost when water molecules form ice crystals is known as latent heat. Latent heat refers to the energy absorbed or released by a substance during a phase change without a change in temperature. In the case of water transitioning from liquid to solid (ice), energy is released as the water molecules organize into a crystalline structure. This release of energy is essential for the formation of ice.

Latent heat occurs in various phase changes, such as melting, freezing, vaporization, and condensation, highlighting its significance in thermodynamics and food sciences. The terminology distinguishes between different types of heat, so it's important to select the correct term when discussing phase changes like those occurring from liquid to solid states.

The other terms refer to specific processes related to heat but are distinct from the concept of latent heat. For instance, specific heat refers to the amount of energy required to change the temperature of a substance by one degree Celsius, while heat of fusion specifically denotes the energy required for a substance to change from solid to liquid. Heat of vaporization is the energy needed for a substance to transition from liquid to gas. Each of these terms addresses different aspects of heat transfer and phase changes in matter.