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, involving processes like 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 changes from a liquid to a gas, usually due to heat from the sun.

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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 in the air 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 that falls from clouds to the Earth's surface, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

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What is groundwater?

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Groundwater is water that is stored underground in soil and rock layers, often found in aquifers.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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What is an aquifer?

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An aquifer is a layer of rock or sediment that holds water and allows it to flow, providing a source of groundwater.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS3-1

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What is a reservoir?

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A reservoir is a large natural or artificial lake used to store water for human use, such as drinking, irrigation, or hydroelectric power.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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What percentage of Earth's water is fresh water?

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Only about 3% of Earth's water is fresh water, and of that, a small percentage is accessible for human use.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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Why is groundwater often cleaner than surface water?

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Groundwater is often cleaner because it is filtered by layers of soil and rock, which remove pollutants.

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What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

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

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4