Water Cycle

Front

What is the process called when the heat from the sun causes ocean water to disappear into the air as water vapor?

Back

evaporation

Answer explanation

The process described is evaporation, where heat from the sun converts liquid water in the ocean into water vapor, allowing it to enter the atmosphere.

Front

After a heavy rain, Benjamin notices that some of the water disappears into the ground, seeping through the soil and moving into rocks through cracks and pore spaces. What is this process called?

Back

infiltration

Answer explanation

The process described is known as infiltration, where water seeps into the ground, moving through soil and into rocks via cracks and pores. This distinguishes it from condensation, precipitation, and runoff.

Front

What is the release of water from clouds called?

Back

precipitation

Answer explanation

The release of water from clouds in the form of rain, sleet, snow, or hail is known as precipitation. This term specifically describes the various forms of water that fall from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface.

Front

What is the process called when water vapor is released from plant leaves into the atmosphere?

Back

transpiration

Front

What is the process by which water vapor in air is changed into liquid water?

Back

condensation

Answer explanation

The correct answer is condensation, which is the process where water vapor in the air cools and changes into liquid water, forming clouds or dew. Infiltration, deposition, and precipitation refer to different processes.

Front

After a heavy rainstorm, Mia notices that water is flowing over the ground and collecting in nearby rivers, lakes, and oceans. What is this process called?

Back

runoff

Answer explanation

Runoff is the process where water flows overland into rivers, lakes, and oceans. It occurs when precipitation exceeds the soil's absorption capacity, leading to surface water movement.