The Sun and the Water Cycle

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.

Front

What are the main processes of the water cycle?

Back

The main processes are evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

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

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process where water vapor cools and changes back into liquid water.

Front

What is precipitation?

Back

Precipitation is any form of water that falls from the sky, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water that occurs when excess water from rain or melting snow flows over the ground.

Front

How does temperature affect the state of water?

Back

Temperature determines whether water is a solid (ice), liquid (water), or gas (water vapor).

Front

What role does the Sun play in the water cycle?

Back

The Sun provides the heat necessary for evaporation, driving the water cycle.

Front

What is the difference between evaporation and condensation?

Back

Evaporation is the process of water turning into vapor, while condensation is the process of vapor turning back into liquid.

Front

What happens during precipitation?

Back

During precipitation, water droplets in clouds combine and fall to the ground as rain, snow, or other forms.