key term - Evaporation

Definition

Evaporation is the process by which a liquid turns into vapor or gas due to heat energy. It occurs when molecules at the surface gain enough energy to escape into the atmosphere.

Related terms

Condensation:

The process by which water vapor in the air cools down and turns back into liquid form, forming clouds or dew.

Transpiration:

The release of water vapor from plants through their leaves into the atmosphere.

Water cycle: The continuous movement of water on, above, and below the Earth's surface through processes like evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.