Which form of energy is primarily responsible for causing water in the ocean to evaporate?

• A. Electrical energy
• B. Sound energy
• C. Nuclear energy
• D. Thermal energy

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that evaporation is the process where molecules at the surface of a liquid gain enough energy to enter the gas phase.
2. Recognize that the energy required for evaporation comes from the heat absorbed by the liquid, which increases the kinetic energy of the water molecules.
3. Identify that thermal energy (heat) is the form of energy that increases the temperature and kinetic energy of molecules, enabling them to overcome intermolecular forces and evaporate.
4. Eliminate other forms of energy such as electrical, sound, and nuclear energy, as they do not directly provide the heat necessary for evaporation in natural ocean conditions.
5. Conclude that thermal energy is primarily responsible for causing water in the ocean to evaporate because it supplies the heat needed for the phase change from liquid to vapor.