The Water Cycle

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle, also known as the hydrologic cycle, is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas, usually when it is heated.

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, 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 water vapor into the atmosphere.

Front

What is collection in the water cycle?

Back

Collection is the process where water accumulates in bodies of water like rivers, lakes, and oceans after precipitation.

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 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

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water, from rain or melting snow, that moves across the ground and returns to bodies of water.

Front

What is the hydrosphere?

Back

The hydrosphere is the combined mass of water found on, under, and above the surface of a planet.