Water Cycle

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous process by which water moves through the environment, including evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection.

Front

What happens during evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process where water changes from a liquid to a gas, usually due to heat from the sun.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process where 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 clouds to the ground.

Front

What is transpiration?

Back

Transpiration is the process by which plants release water vapor into the air through small openings in their leaves.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water, from rain or melting snow, that moves over the ground and returns to rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Front

What is the water table?

Back

The water table is the upper surface of underground water, where the soil or rock is saturated with water.

Front

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

Back

The sun provides the energy needed for evaporation, driving the water cycle by turning liquid water into vapor.

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.

Front

What is sublimation in the context of the water cycle?

Back

Sublimation is the process where ice or snow changes directly into water vapor without first becoming liquid.