The 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, precipitation, and collection.

Front

What are clouds?

Back

Clouds are formed when water vapor condenses and comes together in the atmosphere.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

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

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process by which water vapor 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 does it mean to accumulate water?

Back

To accumulate water means to collect and store it in bodies like rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water, usually from rain, that moves across the ground and eventually enters rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Front

What is transpiration?

Back

Transpiration is the process by which water is absorbed by plants and then released as water vapor into the atmosphere.

Front

What is groundwater?

Back

Groundwater is water that is stored underground in soil and rock layers, often accessed through wells.

Front

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

Back

The sun provides the heat necessary for evaporation, driving the water cycle.