Water Cycle

Front

What is the energy source for the water cycle?

Back

The Sun

Front

What process occurs when the sun heats up water and turns it into vapor?

Back

Evaporation

Front

What is it called when rain soaks into the ground?

Back

Infiltration

Front

What is the process called when plants give off water vapor as a waste product?

Back

Transpiration

Front

Why is runoff important in the water cycle?

Back

It returns water to other locations on Earth.

Front

What is condensation in the water cycle?

Back

The process where water vapor cools and changes back into liquid water.

Front

What is precipitation?

Back

Any form of water that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

It provides the energy needed for evaporation and drives the cycle.

Front

What is the term for the movement of water through the soil and into the groundwater?

Back

Percolation

Front

What is surface runoff?

Back

Water that flows over the ground surface and returns to bodies of water.