The term for the change of state from liquid to gas is evaporation. This process occurs when molecules at the surface of a liquid gain enough energy to break free from the liquid's surface and enter the gaseous state. Evaporation can happen at any temperature, but it occurs more quickly at higher temperatures. Factors such as surface area, temperature, and air movement can influence the rate of evaporation. It plays a crucial role in the water cycle, contributing to cloud formation and precipitation.