Weather and Climate

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 happens during evaporation in the water cycle?

Back

Evaporation is the process where liquid water is heated by the Sun and changes into water vapor (a gas).

Front

What is condensation in the water cycle?

Back

Condensation is the process where 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 clouds to the Earth's surface, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.

Front

How does the Sun's energy affect the water cycle?

Back

The Sun's energy heats water in oceans, rivers, and lakes, causing it to evaporate into water vapor.

Front

What is the difference between weather and climate?

Back

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

Front

What is an example of weather?

Back

An example of weather is a thunderstorm occurring today.

Front

What is an example of climate?

Back

An example of climate is saying that summers in Texas are typically hot and humid.

Front

What role do clouds play in the water cycle?

Back

Clouds form during condensation and are essential for precipitation, as they hold water vapor that eventually falls as rain or snow.

Front

What is runoff in the water cycle?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water from precipitation that moves over the ground and returns to rivers, lakes, and oceans.