What is a key characteristic of a volatile substance?

A key characteristic of a volatile substance is its ability to easily vaporize at low temperatures. Volatile substances often have a high tendency to enter the gas phase, which means they can transition from liquid or solid states to vapor with relatively little heat input. This property is influenced by the substance's molecular structure and the strength of its intermolecular forces. For example, substances like isopropyl alcohol and gasoline are known for their volatility because they can evaporate quickly at room temperature.

In contrast, a low vapor pressure indicates a substance does not readily evaporate, which is contrary to the definition of volatility. Solid status at room temperature points to a substance being non-volatile as well, while strong intermolecular forces, such as those found in water or certain oils, tend to inhibit vaporization. Therefore, the ability to vaporize easily at low temperatures distinctly characterizes a volatile substance.