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 where liquid water turns into water vapor, usually occurring when the sun heats the water.

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

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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What is precipitation?

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

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

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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

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What is runoff?

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Runoff is the flow of water that occurs when excess water from rain or melting snow flows over the ground and returns to bodies of water.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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What is an example of evaporation in nature?

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An example of evaporation is when puddles of water dry up on a sunny day.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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What is an example of condensation in nature?

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An example of condensation is dew forming on grass in the morning.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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What is an example of precipitation?

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An example of precipitation is snow falling during winter.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

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How does temperature affect evaporation?

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Higher temperatures increase the rate of evaporation because warm air can hold more water vapor.

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NGSS.MS-PS1-4