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 stages like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process where liquid water turns into water vapor, usually due to heat from the sun.

Front

What is condensation?

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 runoff?

Back

Runoff is the movement of water, usually from rain or melted snow, that flows over the ground and returns to oceans, rivers, or lakes.

Front

What is the opposite of evaporation?

Back

The opposite of evaporation is condensation.

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

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

Front

What happens during the condensation stage?

Back

During condensation, water vapor cools and forms tiny droplets that gather to create clouds.

Front

How does precipitation occur?

Back

Precipitation occurs when water droplets in clouds combine and grow heavy enough to fall to the ground.

Front

What is transpiration?

Back

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