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, involving processes like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which water is heated and changes from a liquid to a gas (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 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 run-off?

Back

Run-off is the movement of water, usually from rain, that flows over the ground and returns to oceans, rivers, and lakes.

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the heat necessary for evaporation, which is the first step in the water cycle.

Front

What happens to salt in ocean water during evaporation?

Back

During evaporation, the salt does not evaporate with the water; it remains in the ocean.

Front

What is transpiration?

Back

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

Front

How do clouds form?

Back

Clouds form when water vapor in the air cools and condenses into tiny water droplets or ice crystals.

Front

What is the difference between evaporation and transpiration?

Back

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