Nate Core Practice Test 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

Latent heat refers specifically to the heat absorbed or released by a substance during a phase change, such as when water transitions from liquid to vapor (evaporation) or from vapor to liquid (condensation). This process occurs without a change in temperature of the substance itself, which is critical in HVAC science because it affects energy efficiency and the management of thermal comfort.

In HVAC systems, understanding latent heat is essential for controlling humidity and maintaining comfort levels within a space. For instance, when moisture in the air condenses on a cooling coil, latent heat is released, which influences the overall energy dynamics of the HVAC system.

The other choices do not accurately describe latent heat. The first option pertains to sensible heat, which involves temperature change without a phase transition. The third option implies heat loss to the environment, which is a different consideration when analyzing system efficiency but does not connect to the concept of latent heat. The fourth option refers to conduction, a method of heat transfer that involves direct contact, rather than the phase changes intrinsic to latent heat.