The Water Cycle, Cloud Formation, and Air Masses

What is the main driver of the water cycle on Earth?

• The Sun's energy

• The ocean tides

• The wind

• Earth's rotation

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

How do birds manage to soar without flapping their wings?

• By finding warm, rising air

• By using their strong muscles

• By gliding on rain clouds

• By imitating airplanes

Why does condensation occur on cold surfaces?

• Because water vapor loses energy and forms droplets

• Because the air pressure rises suddenly

• Because the cold surface absorbs water droplets

• Because ice particles are in the air

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What happens when warm, moist air rises?

• It cools and condenses into clouds

• It becomes warmer

• It stays at the same altitude

• It evaporates further

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

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How does evaporation cool the Earth's surface?

• By absorbing heat from the surroundings

• By absorbing sunlight directly

• By forming clouds that block the sun

• By turning into ice crystals

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What forms clouds in the atmosphere?

• Water vapor condensing into tiny droplets

• Solid water particles free-falling

• Air becoming denser

• Dust particles clustering together

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

What can you deduce about the air masses that form over the ocean?

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

What causes dew to form on cold mornings?

• Condensation of water vapor on cold ground

• Water droplets freezing in the air

• Melting of frost

• Wind blowing over moist ground

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Why do some areas experience different surface temperatures?

• Due to unequal heating of surfaces by the Sun

• Because of ocean currents

• The distance from the mountains

• The presence of wildlife

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Why do clouds form at higher altitudes?

• The air temperature decreases, allowing condensation.

• There is less dust in the air.

• The air pressure increases.

• The Sun heats the air more.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4