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, involving processes like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

Front

What is precipitation?

Back

Any form of water that falls from the sky, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

The process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas, usually due to heat.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

The process by which water vapor in the air cools and changes back into liquid water, forming clouds.

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What is transpiration?

Back

The process by which water is absorbed by plants and then released as water vapor into the atmosphere.

Front

What is the hydrologic cycle?

Back

Another name for the water cycle, emphasizing the movement of water through the environment.

Front

What role does temperature play in precipitation?

Back

Temperature affects the form of precipitation; warmer temperatures can lead to rain, while colder temperatures can lead to snow or sleet.

Front

What is convection in the context of the water cycle?

Back

The movement caused within a fluid (like air or water) by the tendency of hotter, less dense material to rise and cooler, denser material to sink, which helps transfer heat.

Front

What is run-off?

Back

Water that flows over the ground surface and returns to bodies of water, contributing to the water cycle.

Front

How does the sun influence the water cycle?

Back

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