Water Cycle, Dew Point & Relative Humidity

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation happens when gas water molecules lose heat energy and stick to an object as liquid.

Front

Define relative humidity.

Back

Relative humidity is the amount of water vapor in the air at the current temperature related to the total amount it could hold at that temperature.

Front

What is the dew point?

Back

The temperature at which water vapor turns back into liquid water is called the dew point.

Front

When does dew most likely form?

Back

Dew (liquid water droplets) is most likely to form when warm humid air contacts cold ground.

Front

What is humidity?

Back

The amount of water vapor in the air is known as humidity.

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.

Front

List the main stages of the water cycle.

Back

The main stages of the water cycle are evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas or vapor.

Front

What role does temperature play in relative humidity?

Back

Temperature affects the air's capacity to hold water vapor; warmer air can hold more moisture.

Front

What happens during precipitation?

Back

Precipitation occurs when water droplets in clouds become heavy enough to fall to the ground as rain, snow, sleet, or hail.