How Molecular Energy Drives Evaporation
Evaporation is a process where molecules at the surface of a liquid gain enough energy to break free from the liquid and become vapor or gas. In the context of water, evaporation occurs when water molecules near the surface of a body of water gain sufficient energy to escape into the surrounding air as water vapor.
This energy that drives the evaporation process comes from the Sun. The Sun's radiant energy heats the Earth's surface, including water bodies like lakes, rivers, and oceans. When water absorbs this solar energy, the water molecules gain kinetic energy, which makes them move more rapidly and become more energetic.
As the water molecules gain enough energy, they transition from a liquid state to a gaseous state, forming water vapor. These water vapor molecules rise into the atmosphere, contributing to the water cycle, and eventually, they may condense to form clouds and participate in the formation of precipitation.