What happens to evaporation rate when surface area increases?

Correct answer: Increases

Direct answer: D, the evaporation rate increases. Evaporation occurs when some molecules at the surface of a liquid gain enough energy to escape into the air. If the liquid is spread over a larger surface, more liquid molecules are exposed to the air at the same time. This increases the number of molecules that can escape during a given period, so evaporation becomes faster, assuming other conditions such as temperature, wind, and humidity are comparable. Option A is wrong because greater exposed area does not reduce the number of escaping molecules. Option B is wrong because evaporation does not stop; it is usually enhanced. Option C is wrong because surface area affects the rate. Option D is correct. For example, a wet cloth dries faster when spread out than when folded into a thick bundle. Memory cue: spread out means more exposed surface and faster evaporation.