Water Vapor

Water vapor is the gaseous phase of water, which occurs when water evaporates from surfaces such as lakes, rivers, and oceans, or when it is released into the atmosphere through processes like transpiration from plants. It is an essential component of the Earth’s atmosphere and plays a critical role in weather and climate. Water vapor is less dense than liquid water and can exist in varying concentrations, depending on temperature and pressure. It is also a significant greenhouse gas, contributing to the greenhouse effect by trapping heat in the atmosphere. The presence of water vapor affects humidity, cloud formation, and precipitation patterns, making it a key element in meteorology and climatology.