The common term for the process of converting a liquid to a gas is "evaporation." This process occurs when molecules in a liquid gain enough energy to break free from the liquid's surface and transition into a gaseous state. Evaporation is a crucial part of the water cycle, allowing water to move from lakes, rivers, and oceans into the atmosphere. Factors such as temperature, humidity, and air pressure can influence the rate of evaporation, with higher temperatures typically increasing the evaporation rate. This natural phenomena plays a significant role in weather patterns, climate regulation, and ecological balance.