Hygroscopy
Hygroscopy is the ability of a substance to absorb moisture from the surrounding environment. This property is commonly observed in materials like salt, sugar, and certain types of silica gel. Hygroscopic substances can attract water vapor, leading to changes in their physical state or properties, such as clumping or dissolving.
Hygroscopy plays a significant role in various fields, including food preservation and pharmaceuticals. In these industries, controlling moisture levels is crucial to maintaining product quality and preventing spoilage. Understanding hygroscopic behavior helps in designing effective packaging and storage solutions to protect sensitive materials from humidity.