Distribution of Water and River Basins

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the water that flows over the ground surface and eventually ends up in ponds, streams, rivers, and oceans.

Front

Where does runoff end up?

Back

Runoff can end up in ponds, streams, rivers, and ultimately the ocean.

Front

What percent of fresh water is frozen in ice?

Back

68.7% of the Earth's fresh water is frozen in ice.

Front

What is the main source of Earth's water?

Back

Most of the Earth's water is found in salty oceans.

Front

What determines the state of water (solid, liquid, gas)?

Back

The state of water is primarily determined by temperature.

Front

Where is most of Earth's available freshwater stored?

Back

Most of Earth's available freshwater is stored underground.

Front

What is a river basin?

Back

A river basin is the area of land where all the water that falls as precipitation drains into a common outlet, such as a river.

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, including processes like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

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

Front

What is condensation?

Back

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