Which process describes water changing from liquid to a gaseous state in the atmosphere?

• A. Evaporation
• B. Condensation
• C. Sedimentation
• D. Precipitation

Answer: (A)

Water changing from liquid to gaseous state in the atmosphere is evaporation. This happens when liquid water gains enough energy—usually from heat—so that surface molecules break free and enter the air as water vapor. In the atmosphere, evaporation occurs below the boiling point and is aided by sunlight, dry air, and wind that remove water vapor, maintaining a gradient that keeps evaporation going. This is different from condensation, which is vapor turning back into liquid when it cools; sedimentation, which is the settling of particles; and precipitation, which is water falling as rain or snow.