The 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 again through evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

Front

What happens to water that falls as precipitation if it does not evaporate?

Back

Water that soaks into the ground is used by plants, moves deeper into the ground until it reaches solid rocks, or becomes runoff that flows into creeks and streams.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process by which water vapor cools and changes into liquid water.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which liquid water is heated and changes into water vapor.

Front

What is precipitation?

Back

Precipitation is any form of water that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is water that flows over the ground and eventually reaches rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Front

What is groundwater?

Back

Groundwater is water that is stored underground in soil and rock layers.

Front

What is the correct sequence of the water cycle?

Back

The correct sequence is evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

Front

What role do plants play in the water cycle?

Back

Plants absorb water from the soil and release water vapor into the atmosphere through a process called transpiration.

Front

What happens to water vapor when it cools?

Back

When water vapor cools, it condenses into liquid water, forming clouds.