Water Cycle Concepts and Processes

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The movement of water on, above, or below the surface of the Earth.

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What is precipitation?

Back

The process where water droplets fall to the Earth in forms such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

The process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas (water vapor) due to heat.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

The process where water vapor cools and changes back into liquid water, forming clouds.

Front

What is water vapor?

Back

Water in its gaseous state, which is formed when water evaporates.

Front

What factors increase evaporation?

Back

Warm temperatures, sunlight, and wind can increase the rate of evaporation.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

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

Front

What role do clouds play in the water cycle?

Back

Clouds are formed from condensed water vapor and are a key part of the precipitation process.

Front

How does temperature affect the water cycle?

Back

Higher temperatures increase evaporation rates, while lower temperatures can lead to condensation and precipitation.

Front

What is the difference between weather and climate?

Back

Weather refers to short-term atmospheric conditions, while climate is the long-term average of weather patterns.