What is the key difference between air cooling and liquid cooling in data center applications?

The primary distinction between air cooling and liquid cooling lies in the requirement for liquid supply to the entity being cooled. In air cooling, only air needs to be supplied for operation, whereas in liquid cooling, a liquid coolant must be supplied to the entity for operation. This definition does not limit the cooling fluid to water, and various liquids can be considered for application, including those that may exist in a vapor phase within the cooling loop.