What is it called when water changes from a vapor back into a liquid?

The process in which water changes from a vapor back into a liquid is known as condensation. This occurs when water vapor in the air cools and transitions into liquid form, often visible as droplets on surfaces or as clouds in the atmosphere.

Understanding condensation is crucial in various fields, including building science, as it plays a significant role in moisture control within structures. Proper management of condensation is essential to prevent issues such as mold growth and structural damage, which can arise when humidity levels and temperature conditions lead to excessive condensation accumulation in a building.

The term evaporation, for instance, refers to the process of liquid water changing into vapor, which is the opposite of condensation. Precipitation encompasses the process by which water falls from the atmosphere in various forms like rain or snow, while desublimation describes the change from vapor to solid without passing through the liquid state. These processes are distinct and are not applicable to describing the transition from vapor to liquid.