Water Cycle

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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.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What is precipitation?

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

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

Front

What is evaporation?

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Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas or vapor, usually due to heat from the sun.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-PS1-4

Front

What is condensation?

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Condensation is the process by which water vapor in the air cools and changes back into liquid water, forming clouds.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

Front

What is an aquifer?

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An aquifer is a layer of rock or sediment that holds groundwater and allows it to flow, providing a source of fresh water.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS3-1

Front

What is groundwater?

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

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NGSS.MS-ESS3-1

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What percentage of Earth's water is fresh water?

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Only about 3% of Earth's water is fresh water, and of that, a small percentage is accessible for human use.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What are clouds made of?

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Clouds are made of tiny water droplets or ice crystals that are suspended in the air.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What is the role of the sun in the water cycle?

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

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What is the difference between rain and sleet?

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Rain is liquid water that falls from clouds, while sleet is frozen precipitation that forms when rain freezes before reaching the ground.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5