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 such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas (water vapor) due to heat.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

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

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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.

Front

What is surface runoff?

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Surface runoff is the flow of water, from rain or melting snow, that moves across the ground and eventually returns to bodies of water.

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What is the hydrosphere?

Back

The hydrosphere is the combined mass of water found on, under, and above the surface of a planet, including oceans, rivers, lakes, and water vapor.

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True or False: During evaporation, water is in its liquid form.

Back

False. During evaporation, water is in its liquid form before it changes to gas.

Front

True or False: When condensation occurs, cooling also occurs.

Back

True. Cooling occurs during condensation as water vapor loses heat.

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 transpiration?

Back

Transpiration is the process by which water is absorbed by plants and then released as water vapor into the atmosphere.