5.8B The Water Cycle Review

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle, also known as the hydrologic cycle, is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth. It includes processes such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

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

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas (water vapor) due to heat from the sun.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process by which 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 flow of water that occurs when excess water from rain or melting snow flows over the ground and returns to oceans, rivers, and lakes.

Front

What is the difference between evaporation and transpiration?

Back

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

Front

What is the significance of clouds in the water cycle?

Back

Clouds are formed from condensed water vapor and play a crucial role in the water cycle by transporting water and eventually releasing it as precipitation.

Front

How does temperature affect the water cycle?

Back

Higher temperatures increase evaporation rates, leading to more water vapor in the air, while lower temperatures can lead to condensation and precipitation.

Front

What is the process of infiltration?

Back

Infiltration is the process by which water on the ground surface enters the soil, replenishing groundwater supplies.