Water Cycle

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous process by which water moves through the environment, involving processes such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and infiltration.

Front

What is precipitation?

Back

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

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which water is converted from liquid to vapor, usually due to heat from the sun.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

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

Front

What is infiltration?

Back

Infiltration is the process by which water soaks into the ground, replenishing groundwater supplies.

Front

What is surface runoff?

Back

Surface runoff is the flow of water, from rain or melting snow, that moves across the ground and eventually enters rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Front

What percentage of Earth's water is freshwater?

Back

Only about 3% of Earth's water is freshwater, and of that, only about 1% is accessible for human use.

Front

What happens to water during the heating process?

Back

When water is heated, it gains energy, causing it to evaporate and turn into water vapor.

Front

What is the role of the sun in the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the energy needed for evaporation, driving the water cycle by heating water in oceans, rivers, and lakes.

Front

What is the difference between weather and climate?

Back

Weather refers to short-term atmospheric conditions, while climate refers to the long-term average of weather patterns in a specific area.