Water Cycle

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

the movement of water on, above, or below the surface of the Earth

Answer explanation

The water cycle refers to the movement of water on, above, or below the surface of the Earth. This includes processes like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation, making it a dynamic system essential for life.

Front

What part of the water cycle does this picture show?

Back

condensation

Answer explanation

The picture shows condensation, which is the process where water vapor cools and changes into liquid droplets, forming clouds. This is a key part of the water cycle, distinct from evaporation and precipitation.

Front

What is the opposite of condensation?

Back

evaporation

Answer explanation

The opposite of condensation, which is the process of gas turning into liquid, is evaporation. Evaporation is when liquid water turns into vapor, thus reversing the condensation process.

Front

Why is runoff important?

Back

It returns water to other locations on Earth

Answer explanation

Runoff is important because it returns water to other locations on Earth, helping to replenish rivers, lakes, and groundwater. This process is essential for maintaining the water cycle and supporting ecosystems.

Front

Snow, sleet, hail, and rain are all examples of ________________.

Back

precipitation

Answer explanation

Snow, sleet, hail, and rain are all forms of water that fall from the atmosphere to the ground. This process is known as precipitation, making it the correct choice among the options provided.

Front

What is it called when plants give off water vapor as a waste product?

Back

transpiration

Answer explanation

The process by which plants release water vapor as a waste product is called transpiration. This is essential for regulating water and nutrient flow within the plant, distinguishing it from processes like evaporation and condensation.

Front

When water _________, dew forms.

Back

Condenses

Answer explanation

When water condenses, it changes from a gas to a liquid, forming droplets that create dew. The other options do not describe this process, making 'condenses' the correct choice.

Front

What is the energy source for the water cycle?

Back

the sun

Answer explanation

The energy source for the water cycle is the sun. It drives evaporation, which is the first step in the cycle, leading to condensation and precipitation. Without the sun's energy, the water cycle would not occur.

Front

Precipitation happens when clouds of water droplets are too ______________.

Back

heavy

Answer explanation

Precipitation occurs when clouds accumulate enough water droplets to become too heavy to remain suspended in the air. Therefore, the correct answer is 'heavy', as it directly relates to the process of precipitation.

Front

Evaporation happens when the sun ___________ water and turns it into vapor.

Back

heats up

Answer explanation

Evaporation occurs when the sun heats up water, causing it to change from liquid to vapor. The correct choice is 'heats up' as it directly relates to the process of evaporation.