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 collection.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

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

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process where water vapor in the air 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, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.

Front

What is accumulation in the water cycle?

Back

Accumulation is the process where water collects in large bodies like rivers, lakes, and oceans after precipitation.

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 the forms of precipitation?

Back

The forms of precipitation include snow, rain, sleet, and hail.

Front

How does the sun affect the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the heat necessary for evaporation, which is the first step in the water cycle.

Front

What role do clouds play in the water cycle?

Back

Clouds are formed during condensation and are essential for transporting water vapor and eventually releasing it as precipitation.

Front

What happens during the process of collection?

Back

Collection occurs when precipitation gathers in bodies of water like rivers, lakes, and oceans, where it can eventually evaporate again.