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 again through evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

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

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 role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides heat energy that causes evaporation of water from oceans, lakes, and rivers.

Front

What is groundwater?

Back

Groundwater is water that is stored underground in soil and rock layers.

Front

How does groundwater reenter the water cycle?

Back

Groundwater can reenter the water cycle through evaporation when it reaches the Earth's surface.

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 happens during the water cycle when it rains?

Back

When it rains, precipitation occurs, and water collects in rivers, lakes, and oceans, eventually evaporating again.

Front

What is the difference between evaporation and transpiration?

Back

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