# When a puddle of water evaporates on a warm day, the ground beneath the puddle becomes cooler. Explain why evaporation causes cooling, using ideas about the kinetic particle model of matter.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Physics (0625) — 2.1 Kinetic particle model of matter · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Molecules in the liquid have a range / distribution of kinetic energies
2. Only the most energetic (higher energy) molecules escape from the surface
3. The average kinetic energy of the remaining molecules decreases
4. A decrease in average kinetic energy means a decrease in temperature

## Key terms

- [evaporation](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/evaporation)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Physics (0625)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/when-a-puddle-of-water-evaporates-da83c247) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.