Evaporation

Evaporation is the process by which water from the Earth's surface, such as oceans, rivers, and lakes, is converted into water vapor and released into the atmosphere. The energy for evaporation is typically provided by the sun, which heats the water and causes it to change from a liquid to a gas.

Condensation

Once water vapor is in the atmosphere, it can undergo condensation to form clouds. Condensation occurs when the temperature of the air decreases, causing the water vapor to change back into liquid water droplets. These droplets then accumulate to form clouds.

Precipitation

Precipitation is the release of water from the atmosphere in the form of rain, snow, sleet, or hail. This occurs when the water droplets in clouds become too heavy to remain suspended in the air and fall to the Earth's surface under the influence of gravity.

Runoff

When precipitation reaches the Earth's surface, it can either infiltrate into the ground to replenish groundwater reserves or flow over the surface as runoff. Runoff typically collects in rivers, streams, and eventually makes its way back to the oceans, thus completing the hydrological cycle.

1. Identify the main processes involved in the hydrological cycle: evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.
2. Discuss the role of solar energy in driving the hydrological cycle.
3. Examine the impact of the hydrological cycle on weather patterns and climate regulation.
4. Explore the significance of the hydrological cycle in sustaining ecosystems and supporting human activities.
5. Investigate human impacts on the hydrological cycle, such as deforestation, urbanization, and climate change.