The process that allows water to enter the atmosphere is called evaporation.
Evaporation occurs when water from oceans, rivers, lakes, or even moist soil turns into vapor and rises into the air. This transformation happens because of the heat from the sun, which warms the water and gives water molecules the energy they need to overcome the forces holding them together in liquid form.
As the water molecules gain enough energy, they escape into the atmosphere as water vapor. This process is crucial for the water cycle, contributing to cloud formation and eventually precipitation, which brings water back to the ground. Evaporation can be influenced by several factors, including temperature, humidity, and wind speed, which can accelerate or slow down the rate at which water enters the atmosphere.