What is the process called when water vapor cools and changes back into liquid water?

The process in which water vapor cools and transforms back into liquid water is known as condensation. This process occurs when warm, moist air rises and cools, often leading to the formation of clouds as the water vapor condenses into tiny droplets. Condensation plays a critical role in the water cycle, contributing to weather patterns and the formation of precipitation.

When air reaches its dew point, the moisture contained within it cannot hold all the vapor anymore, leading to condensation. This is commonly experienced in nature when dew forms on grass in the morning or when you see water droplets on the outside of a cold glass. Understanding condensation is vital for grasping atmospheric processes, cloud formation, and even phenomena such as fog and mist.