Describe the process of evaporation.
Chemistry · Middle School · Tue Nov 03 2020
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Evaporation is the process by which a liquid, such as water, transforms into a vapor or gas state. It occurs when molecules near the liquid's surface gain enough kinetic energy to break their bonds and enter the gaseous phase. This energy is usually supplied by heat from the surroundings. As the higher-energy molecules escape, the average kinetic energy of the remaining molecules decreases, leading to a cooling effect on the remaining liquid. Evaporation is a key component of the water cycle, where water from oceans, lakes, and other sources turns into vapor and eventually condenses to form clouds or precipitation.