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.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process where liquid water turns into water vapor, usually occurring when the sun heats the water.

Tags

NGSS.5-ESS2-1

Front

What is condensation?

Back

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

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What is precipitation?

Back

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

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

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

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

Where is most of the Earth's water found?

Back

Most of the Earth's water is found in the oceans.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What happens to water vapor in the atmosphere?

Back

Water vapor can cool and condense to form clouds, which can lead to precipitation.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water, from rain or melting snow, over the land surface into rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What is the difference between evaporation and condensation?

Back

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

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-4

NGSS.MS-PS3-4

Front

What conditions increase evaporation?

Back

Warm temperatures, sunny days, and wind can increase the rate of evaporation.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4