What does a precipitate refer to in a chemical context?

In chemistry, a precipitate is defined as a solid that forms and separates from a liquid solution during a chemical reaction. This process typically occurs when ions in solution react to form an insoluble compound, which then aggregates into solid particles that can settle at the bottom of the container. The formation of a precipitate is an important aspect of many chemical processes, including various wastewater treatments, where it may indicate the removal of contaminants.

While gases that form in a reaction, liquids that evaporate, and cloudy solutions may all indicate different chemical phenomena, they do not fit the definition of a precipitate. Only the formation of a solid that settles signifies the specific occurrence of precipitation in a chemical context.