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, involving processes like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas, usually due to heat from the sun.

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 the atmosphere to the Earth's surface.

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the energy needed for evaporation, driving the water cycle.

Front

What is the dominant gas in the atmosphere that forms clouds?

Back

Water vapor is the dominant gas in the atmosphere that forms clouds.

Front

How does water return to the Earth after evaporation?

Back

Water returns to the Earth as precipitation.

Front

What happens to ocean water during the water cycle?

Back

Ocean water evaporates into the atmosphere, where it can condense and fall back as precipitation.

Front

What are examples of precipitation?

Back

Examples of precipitation include rain, hail, sleet, and snow.

Front

What is the relationship between evaporation and salt concentration in tropical seas?

Back

High rates of evaporation in tropical seas lead to higher salt concentrations because the water evaporates, leaving the salt behind.