The Water Cycle

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous process by which water moves through the environment, including evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and infiltration.

Front

Define evaporation.

Back

Evaporation is the process by which liquid water changes into water vapor, usually due to heat.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process by which water vapor in the air cools and becomes liquid water.

Front

Define precipitation.

Back

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

Front

What is infiltration?

Back

Infiltration is the movement of water into the ground, where it can replenish groundwater supplies.

Front

Define groundwater.

Back

Groundwater is water that moves through soil or rock underground, often stored in aquifers.

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between evaporation and transpiration?

Back

Evaporation is the process of water turning into vapor from surfaces like lakes, while transpiration is the release of water vapor from plants.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water, from rain or melting snow, that moves over the ground and returns to bodies of water.

Front

Define aquifer.

Back

An aquifer is a geological formation that can store and transmit groundwater.