Water Cycle Review

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous process by which water moves from the Earth's surface to the atmosphere and back, involving processes like evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process where water heats up and changes from a liquid to a gas (water vapor), rising into the atmosphere.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process where water vapor 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 the atmosphere to the Earth's surface.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the water that flows over the ground and eventually returns to oceans, rivers, or lakes.

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the energy needed to heat water, causing it to evaporate into the atmosphere.

Front

What is the process of water falling from the sky called?

Back

Precipitation.

Front

What happens to water vapor in the atmosphere as it cools?

Back

It condenses to form clouds.

Front

What is the main source of energy for the water cycle?

Back

The sun.

Front

How does gravity affect the water cycle?

Back

Gravity pulls precipitation down to the Earth's surface and helps water flow as runoff.