Water Cycle

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

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

Front

What are the main processes of the water cycle?

Back

The main processes are evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.

Front

What happens during evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is when water changes from a liquid to a gas (water vapor) due to heat.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is when 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 clouds to the Earth's surface, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

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

Front

How does the Sun affect the water cycle?

Back

The Sun provides the energy needed for evaporation to occur, driving the water cycle.

Front

Can living things be part of the water cycle?

Back

Yes, living things can be part of the water cycle through processes like transpiration.

Front

What is transpiration?

Back

Transpiration is the process by which plants release water vapor into the air.

Front

Why is runoff important?

Back

Runoff is important because it returns water to other locations on Earth, helping to replenish water sources.