Water Cycle and Energy Flow Flashcard

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth. It includes processes like evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas or vapor, usually due to heat from the sun.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process by which water vapor cools and changes back into liquid water, forming droplets.

Front

What is precipitation?

Back

Precipitation is any form of water that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water, usually from rain or melted snow, that moves over the ground and eventually returns to rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the energy needed for evaporation, driving the water cycle by heating water in oceans, lakes, and rivers.

Front

What are clouds?

Back

Clouds are formed when billions of tiny water droplets or ice crystals group together in the atmosphere, usually as a result of condensation.

Front

What is transpiration?

Back

Transpiration is the process by which plants release water vapor into the air from their leaves, contributing to the water cycle.

Front

How does energy flow through a terrarium?

Back

Energy from the sun allows plants to grow and cycle water through the soil, plants, and air, even in a closed environment.

Front

What is the difference between evaporation and transpiration?

Back

Evaporation is the process of water turning into vapor from surfaces like lakes, while transpiration is the release of water vapor from plants.