Which process describes the transition of water from a liquid to a gas?

The process that describes the transition of water from a liquid to a gas is evaporation. This occurs when water molecules at the surface of a liquid gain enough energy, often from heat, to overcome the forces holding them together and escape into the air as vapor. Evaporation is a vital part of the water cycle and can happen at any temperature, not just when water reaches boiling point; it increases with higher temperatures and lower humidity levels.

In contrast, condensation refers to the process where water vapor cools and changes back into a liquid, such as when dew forms on grass in the morning. Sublimation involves the transition of water from a solid (like ice) directly to a gas, bypassing the liquid phase entirely, which is not applicable here. Transpiration is the process by which plants release water vapor into the air from their leaves, but it is not the direct change of water from liquid to gas on a macro scale. Thus, evaporation is the correct answer as it specifically captures the conversion of liquid water into vapor.