Which of the following best describes evaporation?

Evaporation is best described as the transformation of water from a liquid to a vapor state. This process occurs when water molecules at the surface gain sufficient energy from heat (such as from the sun) and escape into the atmosphere as vapor. This is a critical component of the water cycle, as it contributes to moisture in the air, which can eventually lead to precipitation.

The other options describe different processes related to water but do not accurately define evaporation. For example, changing from vapor to liquid refers to condensation, which occurs when vapor cools and loses energy, resulting in the formation of liquid water. Freezing is the process where liquid water transforms into ice as it loses energy and temperature decreases. The absorption of water into soil pertains to infiltration or percolation, which is a different hydrological process involving the movement of water through soil layers. Understanding these definitions helps clarify the specific nature of evaporation within the broader context of the water cycle.