Evaporation is the process by which liquid water transforms into water vapor, a gas. This occurs when molecules at the surface of the liquid gain enough energy to break free from the liquid's surface. Factors such as temperature, surface area, and air movement can influence the rate of evaporation. This natural phenomenon is essential for various processes, including the water cycle, where water evaporates from oceans, lakes, and rivers, eventually condensing to form clouds. Understanding evaporation helps in fields like meteorology and environmental science, as it plays a crucial role in weather patterns and climate regulation.