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Mist is a natural phenomenon caused by small droplets of water suspended in the cold air, usually by condensation. Physically, it is an example of a dispersion, most commonly seen where water vapor in warm, moist air meets sudden cooling, such as in exhalation air in the winter, or when hot sauna steam is suddenly released outside. Mist occurs naturally as part of weather, typically when humid air comes into contact with surfaces that are much cooler (e.g. mountains). It can also be created artificially with aerosol spray dispensers if the humidity and temperature conditions are right.
The formation of mist, as of other suspensions, is greatly aided by the presence of on which the suspended water phase can congeal. Thus even such unusual sources of nucleation as small ejecta from volcanic eruptions, releases of strongly polar gases, and even the magnetospheric ions associated with aurora can in right conditions trigger condensation and mist formation.
Mist is commonly confused with fog, which resembles a stratus cloud lying at ground level. These two phenomena differ, but share some commonalities; similar condensation processes form both fog and mist. Fog is denser, more opaque and generally lasts a longer time, while mist is thinner and more transparent.
"Scotch mist" is a light steady drizzle that appears like mist.
Mist usually occurs near the shores and is often associated with fog. Mist can be as high as mountain tops when extreme temperatures are low and strong condensation occurs.
Freezing mist is similar to freezing fog, only the density is less and the visibility greater. When fog falls below 0°C, it is known as freezing fog, however it still stays suspended.
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