Water Cycle

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 happens during 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, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail, that falls from clouds 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.

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

What is the opposite of evaporation?

Back

The opposite of evaporation is condensation.

Front

How do clouds form?

Back

Clouds form when water vapor condenses into tiny water droplets or ice crystals in the atmosphere.

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 groundwater?

Back

Groundwater is water that is stored underground in soil and rock layers.