The 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 again through evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and accumulation.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process where water changes from a liquid to a gas (water vapor) due to heat.

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 that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

Front

What is accumulation in the water cycle?

Back

Accumulation refers to the collection of water in bodies like rivers, lakes, and oceans after precipitation.

Front

What is water vapor?

Back

Water vapor is the gaseous state of water, which is formed when water evaporates.

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

What are clouds?

Back

Clouds are formed when water vapor condenses into tiny water droplets or ice crystals in the atmosphere.

Front

Name two forms of precipitation.

Back

Rain and snow are two forms of precipitation.

Front

What role do rivers and oceans play in the water cycle?

Back

Rivers and oceans are points of accumulation where water collects after precipitation.