The Water Cycle

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous process of water changing forms as it evaporates into the air, condenses into clouds, and precipitates back to Earth.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process where water changes from a liquid to a gas.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process where water vapor cools and changes back into liquid water, forming clouds.

Front

What is precipitation?

Back

Precipitation is any form of water, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail, that falls from clouds to the Earth's surface.

Front

What is transpiration?

Back

Transpiration is the process where water vapor is released from plants into the atmosphere.

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the energy needed for evaporation to occur.

Front

What is run-off in the water cycle?

Back

Run-off is the movement of water, usually from precipitation, that flows over the ground and returns to bodies of water.

Front

What is the hydrosphere?

Back

The hydrosphere is the part of the Earth that is made up of water, including oceans, rivers, lakes, and water vapor.

Front

How does water return to the Earth after evaporation?

Back

Water returns to the Earth through precipitation.

Front

What happens during the process of freezing?

Back

Freezing is when water changes from a liquid to a solid.