5.8B Sun and the Water Cycle

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

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

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process where water vapor in the air 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 is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the water that flows over the ground surface and returns to rivers, lakes, and oceans after precipitation.

Front

How does the sun affect the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides energy that causes water to evaporate from oceans, lakes, and rivers, driving the water cycle.

Front

What happens during the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle includes processes like evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff, which continuously recycle water.

Front

What is the role of clouds 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 the difference between evaporation and condensation?

Back

Evaporation is the process of water turning into vapor, while condensation is the process of vapor turning back into liquid.

Front

What is an example of precipitation?

Back

Rain is a common example of precipitation that occurs when water droplets in clouds become heavy and fall to the ground.

Front

What is the significance of runoff in the water cycle?

Back

Runoff helps to transport water from land back to bodies of water, replenishing rivers, lakes, and oceans.