The sublimation process is a phase transition where a substance changes directly from a solid to a gas without passing through the liquid state. This occurs when the molecules in the solid gain enough energy, often from heat, to break free from their fixed positions and disperse into the air as gas. Common examples of sublimation include dry ice (solid carbon dioxide) and iodine. Sublimation is utilized in various applications, such as freeze-drying food, where moisture is removed while preserving the structure and flavor. It is also used in printing techniques, like sublimation printing, where dyes are transferred onto materials, creating vibrant images.