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How does evaporation work?
Quick answer
Evaporation happens when liquid turns into gas at its surface. The fastest-moving molecules near the surface gain enough energy to escape into the air — which is why puddles dry up and wet clothes dry, especially when it's warm or breezy.
Step by step
- Liquid turns to gas at its surface.
- The most energetic surface molecules escape into the air.
- Heat and airflow speed it up.
- It cools the remaining liquid (evaporative cooling).
People also ask
How does evaporation work?
The fastest-moving molecules at a liquid's surface gain enough energy to escape as gas into the air.
Why does evaporation cause cooling?
The most energetic molecules leave, lowering the average energy — and temperature — of what remains.
What speeds up evaporation?
Higher temperature, more surface area, lower humidity, and moving air all help.
Part of the guide: Water & Weather Phenomena →