What happens to water vapor when it cools down?

When water vapor cools down, it undergoes a process called condensation. This occurs when the temperature of the water vapor drops to its dew point, which is the temperature at which the air becomes saturated with moisture. As the temperature decreases, the water vapor molecules lose energy and begin to aggregate, forming liquid water droplets. This is commonly observed when dew forms on grass in the early morning, or when clouds develop in the atmosphere as warm, moist air rises and cools.

The process of condensation is essential in the water cycle, leading to various phenomena such as cloud formation and precipitation. Understanding this process helps to grasp the role of temperature and moisture in weather patterns and the atmosphere's dynamics.