Which process in the water cycle involves the conversion of vapor back into liquid?

The process that involves the conversion of vapor back into liquid is condensation. This occurs when water vapor in the atmosphere cools and transforms into tiny water droplets, often forming clouds. As air rises and cools, the temperature can drop below the dew point—the temperature at which air becomes saturated with moisture. When this happens, the water vapor condenses around small particles in the atmosphere, forming visible droplets that contribute to cloud formation.

Condensation is a crucial component of the water cycle because it is responsible for the formation of clouds and ultimately leads to precipitation, where water returns to the Earth's surface.