The Water Cycle

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous process by which water moves from the Earth's surface to the atmosphere and back again through evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which liquid water is transformed into water 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 clouds or dew.

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 transpiration?

Back

Transpiration is the process by which plants release water vapor into the air through small openings in their leaves.

Front

How does the sun influence the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the energy needed for evaporation, turning liquid water into water vapor.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water, from rain or melting snow, that moves across the ground and returns to bodies of water.

Front

What happens during the process of transpiration?

Back

During transpiration, plants absorb water from the soil and release it as water vapor into the atmosphere.

Front

What is the role of clouds in the water cycle?

Back

Clouds are formed from condensed water vapor and play a crucial role in transporting water in the atmosphere and returning it to the Earth as precipitation.

Front

What is the difference between evaporation and transpiration?

Back

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