The phase changes that occur during the water cycle include evaporation, condensation, and precipitation. Initially, water from oceans, lakes, and rivers warms up and evaporates into the atmosphere as vapor. As the water vapor rises, it cools and undergoes condensation, forming clouds. Eventually, when the droplets in clouds become heavy enough, they fall to the earth as precipitation, which can be rain, snow, or hail. This continuous cycle is critical for distributing water across the planet, supporting life, and regulating climate.