What do we call the process where water vapor changes into liquid water?

The process where water vapor changes into liquid water is known as condensation. This phenomenon occurs when water vapor in the atmosphere cools down and forms tiny droplets of liquid water, which can eventually lead to the formation of clouds. This process is crucial for the water cycle, contributing to weather patterns and the overall movement of water in the environment.

In contrast, evaporation refers to the process of liquid water turning into vapor, while precipitation involves water falling back to the earth in forms like rain or snow. Transpiration, on the other hand, is the process by which water is absorbed by plants and then released as vapor into the atmosphere. Understanding these different processes helps clarify the role each plays in the interconnected system of the water cycle.