What is the term for the process of converting liquid propane to gas?

Vaporization is the correct term for the process of converting liquid propane to gas. This process occurs when liquid propane is exposed to atmospheric conditions or heat, allowing it to change from its liquid state to a gaseous state.

Understanding vaporization is important in the context of propane usage because it affects how the fuel is stored and utilized. Propane exists as a liquid under pressure in tanks, but when the pressure is released or when it is heated, it vaporizes and can then be used as a fuel gas for combustion in appliances.

In contrast, condensation refers to the process where gas turns into a liquid, which is the opposite of what is described in this question. Combustion involves the chemical reaction of propane with oxygen to produce heat and light, which occurs after vaporization and is not relevant to the phase change itself. Evaporation is a similar process to vaporization but typically refers to the transition of a liquid to a gas at temperatures below its boiling point, which is less specific to the controlled context of propane use.