Atomization

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Atomizer redirects here. For the Big Black album of the same name, see Atomizer (album)

Atomization is conversion of bulk liquid into a spray or mist (i.e. collection of drops), often by passing the liquid through a nozzle. Despite the name, it does not imply that the particles are reduced to atomic sizes.

An atomizer is an atomization apparatus; carburetors, airbrushes, misters, and spray bottles are only a few examples of atomizers used ubiquitously. In internal combustion engines, fine-grained fuel atomization is instrumental to efficient combustion.

In some manufacturing process, one may produce a fine powder by spraying molten or dissolved materials through an atomizer and solidifying the droplets.