Fuller Water Cycle

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle, also known as the hydrologic cycle, is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth. It involves 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.

Front

What is precipitation?

Back

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

Front

What is water vapor?

Back

Water vapor is the gaseous form of water that is present in the atmosphere.

Front

What drives the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is driven by energy from the sun and the force of gravity.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water, from rain or melting snow, that moves over the ground and returns to bodies of water like rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Front

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

Back

The sun provides the energy needed for evaporation, which is the first step in the water cycle.

Front

What happens during transpiration?

Back

Transpiration is the process by which plants release water vapor into the atmosphere from their leaves.

Front

What is accumulation in the water cycle?

Back

Accumulation refers to the collection of water in bodies of water like rivers, lakes, and oceans after precipitation.