Water Cycle Vocabulary

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous process by which water moves through the environment, including evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.

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 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

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is when water flows over the ground surface and returns to rivers, lakes, and oceans because it cannot soak into the ground.

Front

What is groundwater?

Back

Groundwater is water that has soaked into the ground and is stored in soil and rock layers.

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the energy needed for evaporation to occur, driving the water cycle.

Front

What is the difference between evaporation and transpiration?

Back

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

Front

What is the significance of clouds in the water cycle?

Back

Clouds are formed during condensation and are essential for precipitation, which replenishes water sources.

Front

What happens during the process of sublimation?

Back

Sublimation is when ice or snow changes directly into water vapor without first becoming liquid.