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.

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What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which liquid water turns into water vapor, usually due to heat from the sun.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

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

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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.

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What is runoff?

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 groundwater?

Back

Groundwater is water that is stored underground in soil and rock layers, often replenished by precipitation.

Front

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

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

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What is hail?

Back

Hail is a form of precipitation that consists of balls or irregular lumps of ice.

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What is snow?

Back

Snow is a form of precipitation that consists of ice crystals that fall from clouds when temperatures are low.

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What is dew?

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Dew is moisture that condenses on surfaces during the night when temperatures drop.