Water Cycle and Heat Transfer

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 like evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.

Front

What is evaporation in the water cycle?

Back

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

Front

What is condensation in the water cycle?

Back

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

Front

What is precipitation in the water cycle?

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 runoff in the water cycle?

Back

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

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What is conduction?

Back

Conduction is the transfer of heat through direct contact between materials, where heat moves from the hotter object to the cooler one.

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What is convection?

Back

Convection is the transfer of heat by the movement of fluids (liquids or gases), where warmer areas rise and cooler areas sink.

Front

What is radiation?

Back

Radiation is the transfer of heat in the form of electromagnetic waves, such as sunlight warming the Earth.

Front

How does the sun influence the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the energy needed for evaporation, driving the water cycle by turning liquid water into vapor.

Front

What role do clouds play in the water cycle?

Back

Clouds are formed by condensed water vapor and are essential for precipitation, returning water to the Earth's surface.