Water Cycle Vocabulary

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, involving processes like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process where liquid water turns into water vapor and enters the atmosphere, usually due to heat from the sun.

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 runoff?

Back

Runoff is the water that flows over the ground surface and returns to bodies of water like rivers, lakes, and oceans after precipitation.

Front

What is groundwater?

Back

Groundwater is water that seeps into the ground and fills the spaces in soil and rock, often stored in aquifers.

Front

How does the sun affect the water cycle?

Back

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

Front

What role do clouds play in the water cycle?

Back

Clouds are formed during condensation and are essential for transporting water vapor and eventually releasing it as precipitation.

Front

What happens to water after it precipitates?

Back

After precipitation, water can become groundwater, runoff, or collect in bodies of water.

Front

What is the difference between evaporation and condensation?

Back

Evaporation is the process of liquid turning into vapor, while condensation is the process of vapor turning back into liquid.