latent heat

Latent heat is the heat energy involved in the phase change of water. Latent heat is gained by water molecules when water evaporates. The heat added during evaporation is used to break hydrogen bonds between water molecules and does not raise the temperature of the water body. The heat then is "hidden" or stored in the water molecule until it is released during condensation. At that point, the heat is converted into sensible heat. Latent heat released during condensation is an important source of energy to drive atmospheric systems like hurricanes and cumulus clouds.