Water Cycle

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 again through evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process where water changes from a liquid to a gas (water vapor) due to heat.

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 that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

Front

What is collection in the water cycle?

Back

Collection is when water gathers in bodies of water like oceans, lakes, and rivers after precipitation.

Front

What controls whether water is a solid, liquid, or gas?

Back

The temperature of the water controls its state: it can be a solid (ice), liquid (water), or gas (steam) depending on the temperature.

Front

What happens during the water cycle?

Back

Water continuously moves through the cycle, changing states and locations, from evaporation to condensation to precipitation and collection.

Front

Give an example of evaporation.

Back

An example of evaporation is steam rising from a pot of boiling water.

Front

What is an example of condensation?

Back

An example of condensation is water droplets forming on the outside of a cold glass.

Front

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

Back

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