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, precipitation, and runoff.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas or vapor, usually due to heat from the sun.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process by which water vapor cools and changes back into liquid water, forming clouds.

Front

What is precipitation?

Back

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

Front

What is runoff?

Back

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

Front

What is the hydrologic cycle?

Back

The hydrologic cycle is another name for the water cycle, emphasizing the movement of water through the environment.

Front

What is transpiration?

Back

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

Front

What is convection in the context of the water cycle?

Back

Convection is the movement within a fluid where warmer, less dense material rises and cooler, denser material sinks, helping to transfer heat and moisture.

Front

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

Back

The sun provides the energy needed for evaporation, driving the water cycle by heating water in oceans, rivers, and lakes.

Front

What is the difference between weather and climate?

Back

Weather refers to short-term atmospheric conditions, while climate is the long-term average of weather patterns in a specific area.