The Water Cycle

The water cycle, also known as the hydrologic cycle, is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth. It involves processes such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff, and is crucial for maintaining the Earth's water supply.

Key Processes in the Water Cycle

1. Evaporation: The process by which water is heated by the sun and changes from liquid to water vapor, rising into the atmosphere.
2. Condensation: The process by which water vapor in the atmosphere cools and changes back into liquid water, forming clouds.
3. Precipitation: When the water droplets in clouds become too heavy, they fall to the Earth as rain, snow, sleet, or hail.
4. Runoff: The flow of water on the Earth's surface into rivers, lakes, and oceans, ultimately returning to the oceans to begin the cycle again.

Importance of the Water Cycle

The water cycle is essential for sustaining life on Earth. It helps to regulate the Earth's temperature, provides freshwater for plants, animals, and human consumption, and plays a crucial role in shaping the Earth's landscape through processes such as erosion and sedimentation.

Study Tips

• Use diagrams to visualize the different stages of the water cycle.
• Learn the key vocabulary terms associated with the water cycle, such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.
• Understand the significance of the water cycle in maintaining the Earth's ecosystems and climate.
• Consider real-world examples of how the water cycle impacts the environment and human activities.