Water on Earth

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid state at Earth's surface to a vapor state in the atmosphere.

Front

What is an aquifer?

Back

An aquifer is an underground layer of rock or sediment that holds water.

Front

Why is runoff important?

Back

Runoff is important because it returns water to other locations on Earth.

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the movement of water on, above, or below the surface of the Earth.

Front

Does the water cycle have a start or end?

Back

No, the water cycle has no start or end.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

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

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 transpiration?

Back

Transpiration is the process by which water is absorbed by plants and then released as vapor into the atmosphere.

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

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

Front

What is groundwater?

Back

Groundwater is water that is stored underground in aquifers and can be accessed through wells.