Water Cycle Key Terms Flashcards
Evaporation
Evaporation is the process by which water turns from a liquid state to a gas state. This occurs when water is heated and changes into water vapor, rising into the air. For example, when the sun shines on a puddle of water, the water slowly disappears as it evaporates into the air.
Condensation
Condensation is the process in which water vapor in the air cools down and changes back into liquid form. This happens when the water vapor comes into contact with cooler surfaces, such as when it forms droplets on a cold glass. An example of condensation is when you see water droplets forming on the outside of a cold drink on a hot day.
Precipitation
Precipitation refers to any form of water that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth’s surface. It can take the form of rain, snow, sleet, or hail. Precipitation is an essential part of the water cycle as it replenishes the Earth’s water sources. For instance, when it rains, water falls from the clouds and onto the ground.
Collection
Collection is the stage in the water cycle where water accumulates in various bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, and oceans. This collected water can be used by plants, animals, and humans for drinking and other purposes. An example of collection is when rainwater flows into a river, eventually filling up a lake.
Water Cycle
The water cycle is the continuous movement of water on Earth. It involves the processes of evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection. The water cycle helps maintain the balance of water on our planet and is vital for all living organisms. For example, when water evaporates from the surface of the ocean, it forms clouds, which eventually release precipitation back to the Earth.
Groundwater
Groundwater refers to the water that is stored beneath the Earth’s surface in porous rocks and soil. It is an important source of water for plants, animals, and humans, as it can be accessed through wells and springs. An example of groundwater is when a well is drilled into the ground, and water is pumped up for drinking or irrigation.
Transpiration
Transpiration is the process by which plants release water vapor into the atmosphere through their leaves. Similar to evaporation, transpiration contributes to the water cycle by adding moisture to the air. An example of transpiration is when you see water droplets on the leaves of plants on a hot day.
Water Vapor
Water vapor is the gaseous form of water. It is invisible to the naked eye and is present in the Earth’s atmosphere. Water vapor plays a crucial role in the water cycle, as it can condense to form clouds and eventually lead to precipitation. For instance, when warm air rises and cools, the water vapor in the air condenses to form clouds.
Groundwater Recharge
Groundwater recharge is the process by which water from precipitation or surface water seeps into the ground and replenishes the underground water sources. It helps maintain the water levels in aquifers, which are underground reservoirs of water. An example of groundwater recharge is when rainwater soaks into the soil and replenishes the water stored underground.
Aquifer
An aquifer is an underground layer of permeable rock or soil that holds and transmits water. It acts as a natural storage and filtration system for groundwater, providing a sustainable source of water for wells and springs. A good example of an aquifer is the Ogallala Aquifer, which stretches across several states in the United States and provides water for agriculture and drinking purposes.
Runoff
Runoff refers to the movement of water over the Earth’s surface. It occurs when the ground is unable to absorb all the water, such as during heavy rain or when the ground is saturated. The excess water flows over the surface, usually into streams, rivers, or other bodies of water. Runoff plays a crucial role in the water cycle as it helps transport water back to the oceans.
Infiltration
Infiltration is the process by which water seeps into the ground and enters the soil. It occurs when the ground is able to absorb water, usually due to its permeability. Infiltration is an important part of the water cycle as it helps recharge groundwater and replenish underground water sources.
Desalination
Desalination is the process of removing salt and other impurities from seawater to make it suitable for drinking and irrigation. It is an important method of obtaining freshwater in areas where freshwater resources are scarce. Desalination involves techniques such as reverse osmosis and distillation.
Watershed
A watershed is an area of land where all the water that falls within it drains into a common water body, such as a river, lake, or ocean. It is defined by the topography of the land and can vary in size from a small creek to a large river basin. Watersheds play a crucial role in the water cycle as they collect and transport water to different parts of the landscape.
Reservoir
A reservoir is a man-made or natural body of water that is used to store and regulate water for various purposes, such as drinking water supply, irrigation, and hydropower generation. Reservoirs are typically created by constructing dams across rivers or by excavating natural depressions. They help in managing water resources and providing a reliable water supply.
Transpiration
Transpiration is the process by which plants release water vapor into the atmosphere through their leaves. It is an important part of the water cycle as it contributes to the movement of water from the land to the atmosphere. Transpiration helps plants regulate their temperature, transport nutrients, and maintain their structure.
Glacier
A glacier is a large mass of ice that forms over many years from the accumulation and compaction of snow. Glaciers are found in polar regions and high mountain ranges. They play a significant role in the water cycle as they store freshwater in the form of ice and release it slowly over time, contributing to the flow of rivers and the replenishment of water sources.
Sublimation
Sublimation is the process by which ice or snow changes directly into water vapor without melting into a liquid state. It occurs under specific temperature and pressure conditions. Sublimation is an important part of the water cycle in regions where snow and ice are present, as it allows the conversion of solid water into vapor without going through the liquid phase.
Flood
A flood is an overflow of water onto normally dry land. It occurs when the volume of water exceeds the capacity of the land to absorb it or when natural or man-made barriers, such as dams or levees, fail to contain the water. Floods can cause significant damage to property and infrastructure and can have a profound impact on ecosystems and human communities.
Drought
A drought is a prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall or water shortage, resulting in a deficiency of water supply. Droughts can occur in any region and can have severe consequences for agriculture, ecosystems, and human populations. They can lead to crop failure, water scarcity, and economic hardship.
