Water Cycle and Water Distribution

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What is the water cycle?

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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, precipitation, and infiltration.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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Where is most of Earth's freshwater found?

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Most of Earth's freshwater is found in huge masses of ice near the North and South Poles.

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What is evaporation?

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

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NGSS.MS-PS1-4

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What is transpiration?

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Transpiration is the process by which water is absorbed by plants and then released as water vapor into the atmosphere.

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What is condensation?

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

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

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What is precipitation?

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Precipitation is any form of water, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail, that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

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What is infiltration?

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Infiltration is the process by which water soaks into the ground and becomes part of the groundwater supply.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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

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Rivers and lakes store freshwater and are part of the water cycle, where water can evaporate into the atmosphere or flow into oceans.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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How does temperature affect evaporation?

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

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NGSS.MS-PS1-4

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What is groundwater?

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Groundwater is water that is stored underground in soil and rock layers, and it is a significant source of freshwater.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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