The Water Cycle

Front

What is the process by which water vapor is released by plants?

Back

Transpiration

Front

What is the process by which liquid or solid water falls from clouds back to Earth?

Back

Precipitation

Front

What source of energy drives the entire Water Cycle?

Back

Solar energy

Front

What step of the water cycle involves water changing from a gas to a liquid?

Back

Condensation

Front

What is the process by which water is converted from a liquid to a gas?

Back

Evaporation

Front

What is runoff in the water cycle?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water that occurs when excess stormwater, meltwater, or other sources flow over the Earth's surface.

Front

What is the term for water that is stored underground?

Back

Groundwater

Front

What is the term for the process of water soaking into the ground?

Back

Infiltration

Front

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

Back

The sun provides the energy needed for evaporation and drives the water cycle.

Front

What is the difference between evaporation and transpiration?

Back

Evaporation is the process of water turning into vapor from surfaces like lakes and rivers, while transpiration is the release of water vapor from plants.