What does the term "sublimation" specifically describe in terms of state changes?

The term "sublimation" specifically refers to the process where a substance transitions directly from a solid state to a gas state without passing through the liquid phase. This phenomenon can be observed with certain materials, such as dry ice (solid carbon dioxide) and ice under specific conditions, where the solid molecules gain enough energy to escape into the gaseous phase instead of melting into a liquid. This distinctive change is important in various fields, including physics and chemistry, as it demonstrates the properties of different states of matter and the energy required for molecular movement. Understanding sublimation helps clarify the broader concepts of phase changes and states of matter.