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, involving processes like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

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

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process by which water vapor cools and changes back into liquid water, forming droplets.

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the heat energy necessary for evaporation to occur, starting the water cycle.

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 runoff?

Back

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

Front

How does temperature affect evaporation?

Back

Higher temperatures increase the rate of evaporation because heat provides energy for water molecules to escape into the air.

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 happens to water vapor in the atmosphere?

Back

Water vapor can cool and condense to form clouds, which can lead to precipitation.

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.