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 processes like evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which liquid water is transformed into water vapor, usually 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 the process by which water falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface in the form of rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the movement of water, usually from precipitation, over the ground surface into streams, rivers, and oceans.

Front

What is groundwater?

Back

Groundwater is water that is stored underground in soil and rock layers, often accessed through wells.

Front

What are clouds?

Back

Clouds are formed when water vapor condenses into tiny water droplets or ice crystals in the atmosphere.

Front

What is transpiration?

Back

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

Front

What is infiltration?

Back

Infiltration is the process by which water on the ground surface enters the soil.

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the energy needed for evaporation, driving the water cycle.