Biology STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) Practice Test

What process describes the movement of water from the Earth's surface into the atmosphere?

1. Condensation

2. Precipitation

3. Evaporation

4. Transpiration

The correct answer is: Evaporation

The movement of water from the Earth's surface into the atmosphere is best described by evaporation. This process occurs when liquid water, from sources like oceans, rivers, lakes, or soil, is heated by the sun and transforms into water vapor, which then rises into the atmosphere. Evaporation is a key part of the water cycle, facilitating the ongoing movement of water between different earth systems. During this process, the sun's energy provides the necessary heat for water molecules to gain energy, break free from their liquid form, and enter the air as vapor. Other processes like condensation and precipitation involve changes in water vapor back into liquid form or solid precipitation, while transpiration specifically refers to the release of water vapor from plants into the atmosphere. These processes are integral to the water cycle but do not describe the direct movement of water from the surface to the atmosphere in the way that evaporation does.