This process occurs when ice absorbs enough energy (usually heat) to overcome the forces holding its molecules together in a solid structure, directly transitioning into a gaseous state without passing through the liquid phase.
You can see this process in action when:
* Dry ice (frozen carbon dioxide) "disappears": Dry ice sublimates at room temperature, turning directly into carbon dioxide gas.
* Snow and ice disappear from the ground on cold, windy days: The wind can carry away the water vapor that is formed by sublimation.
* Frost forms on windows: Water vapor in the air can sublimate directly onto cold surfaces.
