Water Cycle Processes and Definitions

Front

What is Runoff?

Back

Water from precipitation flows over the ground surface and eventually reaches rivers, lakes, and oceans.

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What is Evaporation?

Back

Heat energizes water molecules. They break free from liquid form. They rise as invisible gas into the atmosphere.

Front

What is Transpiration?

Back

Plants release water vapor through leaf stomata. This process cools plants and their surroundings. It contributes significantly to atmospheric moisture.

Front

What is Condensation?

Back

Water vapor cools and changes back into liquid droplets. This process forms clouds and fog.

Front

What is Precipitation?

Back

When droplets become too heavy, they fall as rain. In colder conditions, snow or hail may form instead.

Front

What is the Water Cycle?

Back

The continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth.

Front

What is Infiltration?

Back

The process by which water on the ground surface enters the soil.

Front

What is Sublimation?

Back

The process where ice and snow change directly into water vapor without first melting into water.

Front

What is the role of the Sun in the Water Cycle?

Back

The Sun provides the energy needed for evaporation and drives the water cycle.

Front

What is Groundwater?

Back

Water that is stored underground in soil and rock layers.