Unit 3 Patterns of Change Study Guide Part 2

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 such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection.

Front

What are the main stages of the water cycle?

Back

The main stages of the water cycle are evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection.

Front

What is evaporation in the context of the water cycle?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas or vapor, usually due to heat from the sun.

Front

What is condensation in the water cycle?

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 the process in the water cycle where water falls from clouds to the Earth's surface in the form of rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

Front

What is collection in the water cycle?

Back

Collection is the final stage of the water cycle where water gathers in bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Front

How does temperature affect the water cycle?

Back

Temperature affects the rate of evaporation and condensation; higher temperatures increase evaporation rates, while cooler temperatures promote condensation.

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between weather and climate?

Back

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

Front

How can you model the water cycle in a classroom experiment?

Back

You can model the water cycle by placing a cup of water in a sunny area, allowing it to evaporate, condense on a surface, and eventually precipitate back into the cup.