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 where water changes from a liquid to a gas, usually caused by heat from the sun.

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 the atmosphere to the Earth's surface, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.

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What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the water that flows over the ground surface and returns to rivers, lakes, and oceans after precipitation.

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What is groundwater?

Back

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

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

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

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

How do clouds form?

Back

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

Front

What happens during a rainstorm?

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During a rainstorm, precipitation occurs when clouds become heavy with water droplets, leading to rain falling to the ground.