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Understanding the Water Cycle Processes

The water cycle, or hydrological cycle, is the continuous movement of water through evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection. It is essential for maintaining Earth's water supply, regulating climate, and supporting ecosystems. Factors like temperature, air pressure, and human activities can significantly influence the cycle.

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33 views1 page

Understanding the Water Cycle Processes

The water cycle, or hydrological cycle, is the continuous movement of water through evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection. It is essential for maintaining Earth's water supply, regulating climate, and supporting ecosystems. Factors like temperature, air pressure, and human activities can significantly influence the cycle.

Uploaded by

davidfeldman170
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as TXT, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

**Class Notes: The Water Cycle**

**Definition:**
The water cycle, also known as the hydrological cycle, is the continuous movement
of water within the Earth and atmosphere. It involves processes such as
evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection.

**Key Stages of the Water Cycle:**


1. **Evaporation**
- The process where water from oceans, lakes, and rivers turns into water vapor
due to heat from the sun.
- Transpiration from plants also contributes to water vapor in the atmosphere.

2. **Condensation**
- Water vapor cools and forms tiny droplets, creating clouds.
- This process releases heat into the atmosphere.

3. **Precipitation**
- When water droplets in clouds become too heavy, they fall to the Earth's
surface as rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

4. **Collection (Runoff and Infiltration)**


- Water collects in bodies like lakes, rivers, and oceans.
- Some water infiltrates the soil and replenishes groundwater.

**Importance of the Water Cycle:**


- Maintains Earth's water supply.
- Regulates climate and weather patterns.
- Supports plant growth and agriculture.
- Provides fresh water for human and animal consumption.

**Factors Affecting the Water Cycle:**


1. **Temperature:** Higher temperatures increase evaporation rates.
2. **Air Pressure:** Affects condensation and precipitation patterns.
3. **Human Activities:** Deforestation, pollution, and urbanization impact the
cycle.

**Summary:**
The water cycle is a vital Earth system that redistributes water and regulates
environmental conditions. Understanding its processes helps in water conservation,
agriculture, and climate studies.

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