The Water Cycle, Water Distribution, and Properties of Water

Front

What is the energy source for the water cycle?

Back

The sun.

Front

How does the total amount of water in the hydrosphere vary over time?

Back

The total amount of water in the hydrosphere remains the same over time, but changes form due to the water cycle.

Front

What property of water prevents a water balloon from popping when held over a flame?

Back

High specific heat capacity.

Front

What is precipitation in the water cycle?

Back

The part of the water cycle when clouds get heavy and can no longer hold the liquid water, causing it to fall as rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

Front

Why does ice float on water?

Back

As water freezes, it expands and its density decreases.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

The process where water is heated by the sun and turns from a liquid into water vapor.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

The process where water vapor cools and turns back into liquid water, forming clouds.

Front

What role do plants play in the water cycle?

Back

Plants absorb water from the soil and release it into the atmosphere through a process called transpiration.

Front

What is the hydrosphere?

Back

The hydrosphere is the combined mass of water found on, under, and above the surface of a planet.

Front

What is the significance of the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is essential for distributing water across the Earth, supporting ecosystems, and regulating climate.