Water Cycle

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What is the water cycle?

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The water cycle is the continuous process by which water moves from the Earth's surface to the atmosphere and back again through evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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What is evaporation?

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Evaporation is the process by which water is heated by the sun and turns into water vapor, rising into the atmosphere.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-PS1-4

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What is condensation?

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

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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What is precipitation?

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

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

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What is groundwater?

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Groundwater is water that seeps into the soil and fills the spaces between rocks and soil particles.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS3-1

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What is surface water?

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Surface water is water that collects on the surface of the ground, such as in rivers, lakes, and oceans.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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What is runoff water?

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Runoff water is water that flows over the ground and returns to bodies of water after precipitation.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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What is accumulation in the water cycle?

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Accumulation is the process of water collecting in bodies of water like lakes, rivers, and oceans over time.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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How does the sun affect the water cycle?

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The sun provides heat that drives evaporation, turning liquid water into vapor and influencing weather patterns.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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What is transpiration?

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

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NGSS.MS-LS2-3