Water Cycle

Front

What is infiltration in the water cycle?

Back

Infiltration is the process by which water on the ground's surface enters the soil.

Front

True or False: Condensation occurs in the atmosphere because temperature increases with altitude, causing water to turn from a gas to a liquid.

Back

False. Condensation occurs when temperature decreases with altitude.

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the closed system in which water moves through different parts of the Earth and the atmosphere.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the phase change from a liquid to a gas when water enters the atmosphere.

Front

Why is water unique compared to other substances?

Back

Water is less dense as a solid (ice) than as a liquid, which is why ice floats.

Front

What is precipitation in the water cycle?

Back

Precipitation is any form of water, liquid or solid, that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water, from rain or melting snow, over the ground surface into bodies of water.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process by which water vapor in the air is changed into liquid water.

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 difference between evaporation and transpiration?

Back

Evaporation is the process of water turning into vapor from surfaces, while transpiration is the release of water vapor from plants.