Water Cycle

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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.

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What is evaporation?

Back

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

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What is condensation?

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Condensation is the process by which water vapor cools and changes back into liquid water, forming clouds.

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What is precipitation?

Back

Precipitation is any form of water that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.

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What is runoff?

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Runoff is the flow of water, usually from rain, that moves across the land and returns to bodies of water like rivers and lakes.

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What is transpiration?

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

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What is water vapor?

Back

Water vapor is the gaseous state of water, found in the air (atmosphere).

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What is fresh water?

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Fresh water is water that does not contain significant amounts of salt, found in lakes, rivers, and streams.

Front

What is the role of the sun in the water cycle?

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The sun provides heat energy for evaporation, which is essential for the water cycle.

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What is the geosphere?

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The geosphere is the solid part of the Earth, including rocks, soil, and landforms.