5.8B The Water Cycle Review

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 liquid water is heated by the sun and changes into water vapor, rising into the atmosphere.

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 the atmosphere to the Earth's surface.

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

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

Front

What is a cumulonimbus cloud?

Back

A cumulonimbus cloud is a type of cloud that is tall and dense, often associated with thunderstorms and heavy precipitation.

Front

How does water flow downhill in the water cycle?

Back

Water flows downhill due to gravity, moving from higher elevations to lower areas, such as rivers and lakes.

Front

What happens to water vapor in the atmosphere?

Back

Water vapor in the atmosphere can cool and condense to form clouds, which may eventually lead to precipitation.

Front

What is the effect of evaporation on nearby land areas?

Back

Evaporation can lead to increased precipitation in nearby land areas, as the water vapor eventually condenses and falls as rain.

Front

What is the difference between liquid water and water vapor?

Back

Liquid water is the form of water we see in lakes and oceans, while water vapor is the gaseous form of water that is invisible and found in the air.