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 role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the heat energy necessary for water to evaporate from the Earth's surface, turning it into water vapor.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which liquid water is transformed into water vapor due to heat.

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, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail, that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface.

Front

What happens to water vapor when it cools?

Back

When water vapor cools, it condenses into liquid water.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water, usually from rain, that moves across the ground and returns to bodies of water.

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

How does the sun's energy affect evaporation?

Back

The sun's energy heats the water, causing it to evaporate more quickly.

Front

What is the difference between evaporation and transpiration?

Back

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