Water Cycle Flashcard Practice

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 liquid water is transformed into water vapor, usually due to heat from the sun.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process by which 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 runoff?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water, usually from rain or melted snow, that moves across the ground and returns to bodies of water.

Front

How does temperature affect precipitation?

Back

Temperature determines the form of precipitation; warmer temperatures can lead to rain, while colder temperatures can result in snow.

Front

What is transpiration?

Back

Transpiration is the process by which plants release water vapor into the air from their leaves.

Front

What is the sequence of processes in the water cycle?

Back

The correct sequence is evaporation → condensation → precipitation.

Front

How do evaporation and transpiration differ?

Back

Evaporation is the process of water turning into vapor from any surface, while transpiration specifically refers to water vapor released from plants.

Front

What role do clouds play in the water cycle?

Back

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