5.8B Sun and 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, and precipitation.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process where water is heated by the sun, turning it from a liquid into water vapor or steam, which then rises into the air.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process where water vapor in the air cools down and turns back into liquid water, forming clouds.

Front

What is precipitation?

Back

Precipitation is the part of the water cycle when clouds become heavy and release water in the form of rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

Front

How does the sun affect the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the heat necessary for evaporation, which is a key process in the water cycle.

Front

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

Back

The ocean acts as a major source of water for evaporation, contributing to the formation of clouds and precipitation.

Front

What are cumulonimbus clouds?

Back

Cumulonimbus clouds are large, towering clouds associated with thunderstorms and heavy precipitation.

Front

What happens during the process of runoff?

Back

Runoff is the movement of water, usually from precipitation, across the ground and into bodies of water like rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Front

What is solar energy?

Back

Solar energy is the energy from the sun that drives processes like evaporation in the water cycle.

Front

What is the difference between evaporation and condensation?

Back

Evaporation is the process of water turning into vapor, while condensation is the process of vapor turning back into liquid water.