Water Cycle

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous process by which water moves through the environment, including evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas, usually due to heat.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

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

Front

What is precipitation?

Back

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

Front

What is runoff?

Back

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

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.

Front

What is sublimation?

Back

Sublimation is the process where ice or snow changes directly into water vapor without first becoming liquid.

Front

What role do clouds play in the water cycle?

Back

Clouds form through condensation and are essential for precipitation, returning water to the Earth's surface.

Front

What is the difference between evaporation and transpiration?

Back

Evaporation is the process of water turning into vapor from surfaces like lakes, while transpiration is the release of water vapor from plants.

Front

How does temperature affect evaporation?

Back

Higher temperatures increase the rate of evaporation, as heat provides energy for water molecules to escape into the air.