The Water Cycle

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What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous process by which water moves through the Earth and its atmosphere, involving processes like evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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Does the water cycle have a start or end?

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No, the water cycle has no start or end; it is a continuous cycle.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

Approximately what percentage of the Earth is covered with water?

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About 70%.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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What does runoff mean in the context of the water cycle?

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Runoff refers to water that flows over the ground surface and eventually returns to bodies of water.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What is sublimation in the water cycle?

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Sublimation is the phase change from solid directly to gas, such as when ice or snow turns into water vapor.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-PS1-4

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What is infiltration?

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Infiltration is the process by which rainwater soaks into the ground and becomes part of the groundwater.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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What is evaporation?

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

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-PS1-4

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What is condensation?

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

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What is precipitation?

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Precipitation is any form of water, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail, that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

Front

What is transpiration?

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Transpiration is the process by which water is absorbed by plants and then released as water vapor into the atmosphere.