Water Cycle

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.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which water is heated by the sun and turns into water vapor, rising into the atmosphere.

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

Where is most of the Earth's water found?

Back

Most of the Earth's water is found in oceans, which cover about 71% of the planet's surface.

Front

What are clouds?

Back

Clouds are visible masses of condensed water vapor floating in the atmosphere, formed when water vapor condenses.

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the heat necessary for evaporation, driving the water cycle by turning liquid water into vapor.

Front

What is the biosphere?

Back

The biosphere is the zone of life on Earth where all living things exist, including land, water, and the atmosphere.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water, from rain or melting snow, that moves over the ground and returns to rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Front

What is infiltration?

Back

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