The Water Cycle (5.8B)

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 liquid water changes into water vapor, usually due to 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 clouds to the Earth's surface, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.

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 role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

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

Front

What is percolation?

Back

Percolation is the process by which water moves through soil and rock layers, filtering and replenishing groundwater.

Front

What are the forms of precipitation?

Back

Forms of precipitation include rain, snow, sleet, and hail.

Front

How does temperature affect evaporation?

Back

Higher temperatures increase the rate of evaporation, as more water molecules gain enough energy to become vapor.

Front

What happens to water vapor when it cools?

Back

When water vapor cools, it condenses into liquid water, forming clouds.