Water Cycle Vocabulary

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process where water vapor cools and changes back into liquid water, forming droplets. This is often seen as dew on grass in the morning.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

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Front

What is transpiration?

Back

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

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Front

What happens when water condenses?

Back

When water condenses, it changes from a gas (water vapor) to a liquid, often forming clouds or dew.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-PS1-4

Front

What is accumulation in the water cycle?

Back

Accumulation refers to places where water collects, such as lakes, ponds, and oceans, before it evaporates.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process where liquid water is heated and turns into water vapor, often occurring in oceans and lakes.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-PS1-4

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.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

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Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the heat necessary for evaporation, which is a key process in the water cycle.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water, usually from rain, that moves over the ground and eventually collects in rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What is groundwater?

Back

Groundwater is water that is stored underground in soil and rock layers, which can be accessed through wells.

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NGSS.MS-ESS3-1

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth, involving processes like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4