The common name for the phenomenon of water changing from liquid to gas is evaporation. Evaporation occurs when molecules of water gain enough energy, often from heat, to transition from the liquid state into water vapor. This process is critical for various natural phenomena, including the water cycle, where evaporation contributes to cloud formation and precipitation. Factors such as temperature, surface area, and air movement can influence the rate of evaporation. This process is essential not just for weather patterns, but also for various practical applications, including cooking, industrial processes, and environmental management.