Definition
A form of induction system icing in which ice forms inside the carburetor as a result of the temperature drop that occurs when liquid fuel vaporizes and mixes with incoming air. As the fuel changes from liquid to vapor, it absorbs heat from the surrounding air, cooling it below freezing and causing any moisture present to freeze on internal carburetor surfaces.
Plain English
Ice that builds up inside the carburetor because the fuel, as it turns from liquid into vapor, cools the surrounding air enough to freeze the moisture in it.
Context Anchor
Seen in carburetor icing discussions, especially when learning why carb ice can form even when the outside air temperature is above freezing.
Derivation
Vaporization comes from the Latin vapor, meaning steam or mist. It refers to a liquid turning into a gas. The term names the cause of this icing type: the act of fuel vaporizing is what cools the air enough to form ice.
Why Pilots Care
Uncorrected fuel vaporization icing reduces engine power and can lead to complete engine stoppage in flight.
Analogy
It is similar to how rubbing alcohol feels cold on your skin as it evaporates. The liquid changes into vapor and takes heat with it, cooling the surface.
Grounding Statement
Picture moist air moving through the carburetor while the fuel evaporates; the air temperature drops, and ice can build up inside even though the day does not feel freezing.
Intuition Check
Fuel vaporization icing does not mean the fuel itself is freezing. It means fuel evaporation cools moist air enough for water to freeze inside the carburetor.
Example Sentence 1
The instructor explained that fuel vaporization icing can develop even on a mild afternoon, which is why carburetor heat is part of the descent checklist.
Example Sentence 2
Applying carburetor heat immediately raised the temperature and cleared the ice created by fuel vaporization icing.