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 where liquid water is transformed into water vapor 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 the atmosphere to the Earth's surface.

Front

What is transpiration?

Back

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

Front

What is infiltration?

Back

Infiltration is the process where water soaks into the soil or porous rock from the surface.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water, usually from rain, that moves across the ground and eventually returns to rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Front

What is the hydrologic cycle?

Back

The hydrologic cycle is another name for the water cycle, emphasizing the movement of water through different phases and locations.

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the energy needed for evaporation, driving the water cycle by heating water in oceans, lakes, and rivers.

Front

What is the difference between evaporation and transpiration?

Back

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