The Water Cycle

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous process by which water moves through the environment, including evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

Define evaporation.

Back

Evaporation is the process by which liquid water changes into water vapor, usually due to heat.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-4

NGSS.MS-PS3-4

Front

What is condensation?

Back

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

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

Define precipitation.

Back

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

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

Front

What is groundwater?

Back

Groundwater is water that moves through soil or rock underground.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-1

Front

Define infiltration.

Back

Infiltration is the movement of water into the ground from the surface.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the energy needed for evaporation to occur.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What is the difference between surface water and groundwater?

Back

Surface water is found in rivers, lakes, and oceans, while groundwater is found underground in soil and rock.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water that occurs when excess rainwater, meltwater, or other sources flows over the ground.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

Define transpiration.

Back

Transpiration is the process by which water is absorbed by plants and then released as water vapor into the atmosphere.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4