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 happens during evaporation?

Back

During evaporation, water changes from a liquid to a gas (water vapor) due to heat.

Front

What is condensation in the water cycle?

Back

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

Front

What is precipitation?

Back

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

Front

What is an aquifer?

Back

An aquifer is an underground layer of rock and soil that is saturated with water, serving as a water source.

Front

What is point-source pollution?

Back

Point-source pollution is pollution that can be traced to a specific source, such as a factory or a drain pipe.

Front

What is non point-source pollution?

Back

Non point-source pollution is pollution that cannot be traced to a single source, often resulting from runoff over a large area.

Front

How does the sun influence the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the energy needed for evaporation, driving the water cycle.

Front

What role do plants play in the water cycle?

Back

Plants contribute to the water cycle through a process called transpiration, where they release water vapor into the atmosphere.

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.