What is Evaporation? Definition, Meaning & Example
The process by which liquid water changes into water vapor when heated.
TL;DR: The process by which liquid water changes into water vapor when heated.
Written & reviewed by the Syllab.in Academic Team (CBSE/NCERT subject experts) · Updated
Evaporation: The process by which liquid water changes into water vapor when heated.
Explanation
Evaporation is a phase change where liquid water particles gain energy from heat and escape into the air as invisible water vapor. This process occurs at the surface of water bodies and is essential for the water cycle. Evaporation increases with temperature, sunlight, wind, and surface area. Clothes dry due to evaporation of water. Sweat on skin evaporates to cool the body. Evaporation requires energy called latent heat of vaporization. This is different from boiling, which occurs at a specific temperature throughout the liquid. Understanding evaporation is crucial for learning about the water cycle and weather patterns.
Example
After rain, puddles on the ground disappear as water evaporates into the atmosphere. You do not see the water vapor, but it is there in the air.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between evaporation and boiling?
Evaporation happens at the surface at any temperature, while boiling occurs throughout the liquid at a specific temperature.
Why does sweat on your skin cool you?
Sweat evaporates and takes heat energy from your body, lowering your temperature through this cooling effect.
More Science Terms
🤖 Stuck on any of these? Ask Syllab's free AI Tutor to explain step by step →