Water Cycle

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth. It includes processes like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

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What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process where water changes from a liquid to a gas, usually when it is heated.

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What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process where water vapor (gas) cools down and changes back into tiny water droplets (liquid).

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What is precipitation?

Back

Precipitation is any form of water that falls from clouds to the ground, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

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What are clouds made of?

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Clouds are made of tiny water droplets or ice crystals that are suspended in the air.

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Where does rain come from?

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Rain comes from clouds when the tiny water droplets combine and become heavy enough to fall to the ground.

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How does water get into the air?

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Water gets into the air through evaporation from oceans, lakes, rivers, and even from plants through a process called transpiration.

Front

What happens to water when it freezes?

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When water freezes, it changes from a liquid to a solid, forming ice.

Front

What is the role of the sun in the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the heat needed for evaporation, helping to move water from the ground into the atmosphere.

Front

How old is most of the water we drink today?

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Most of the water we drink today is millions of years old, having been part of the water cycle for a long time.