Water Cycle Vocabulary

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.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process where liquid water turns into water vapor (gas) due to heat from the sun.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-PS1-4

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process where water vapor cools and changes back into liquid water, forming clouds.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is water that flows over the ground surface when it cannot soak into the soil.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What is collection in the water cycle?

Back

Collection is when water gathers in bodies of water like rivers, lakes, and oceans after precipitation.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

How does the sun affect the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the heat necessary for evaporation, driving the water cycle.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What happens during the process of transpiration?

Back

Transpiration is the release of water vapor from plants into the atmosphere, contributing to the water cycle.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What is the role of clouds in the water cycle?

Back

Clouds form during condensation and are essential for transporting water vapor and eventually releasing precipitation.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

Why do puddles dry up after rain?

Back

Puddles dry up due to evaporation, where the water turns into vapor and enters the atmosphere.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4