5.8B Sun and the 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 stages like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the part of the water cycle when the sun heats up water, turning it from a liquid into water vapor or steam, which then rises into the air.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the part of the water cycle when water vapor in the air cools down and turns back into liquid water, forming clouds.

Front

What is precipitation?

Back

Precipitation is the stage in the water cycle when water falls from the sky to the Earth in forms such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the energy needed for evaporation, which is the first step in the water cycle.

Front

What is an example of evaporation?

Back

An example of evaporation is water turning into vapor from the surface of a lake or ocean when heated by the sun.

Front

What happens during condensation?

Back

During condensation, water vapor cools and changes back into liquid water, forming clouds.

Front

What is runoff in the water cycle?

Back

Runoff is the part of the water cycle where water flows over the ground and returns to rivers, lakes, and oceans after precipitation.

Front

How does temperature affect evaporation?

Back

Higher temperatures increase the rate of evaporation because more heat energy allows more water molecules to escape into the air.

Front

What is the difference between evaporation and condensation?

Back

Evaporation is the process of water turning into vapor, while condensation is the process of vapor turning back into liquid water.