Water Cycle

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.

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

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

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

Water vapor is the gaseous state of water, which is invisible and can be found in the air.

Factors that increase evaporation include higher temperatures, lower humidity, and increased wind.

Run-off is the water that flows over the ground surface and returns to bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, and oceans.

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

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

During precipitation, water droplets in clouds combine and grow heavy enough to fall to the ground as rain, snow, sleet, or hail.