Use the following terms and phrases to construct a concept map that describes the process of the water cycle: water cycle; evaporation; condensation; precipitation; water changes from liquid to gas; water changes from gas to liquid; water falls as rain, snow, sleet, or hail. For more help, refer to the Skill builder Handbook.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Concept Map: Water Cycle
[Water Cycle]
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-------------------------------------------------
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[Evaporation] [Condensation] [Precipitation]
| | |
[Water changes [Water changes [Water falls as
from liquid to from gas to liquid] rain, snow, sleet,
gas] or hail]
Explanation
The water cycle is the continuous movement of water within the Earth and atmosphere. It is a natural process that ensures water is circulated and reused in different forms across various parts of the environment. The water cycle involves three main stages: evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.
The first stage is evaporation, where water from oceans, rivers, lakes, and even soil is heated by the sun and changes from a liquid to a gas called water vapor. This process also includes transpiration, where water evaporates from the surface of plants. As the water vapor rises into the atmosphere, it cools down.
Next, condensation occurs. As the water vapor rises and cools in the atmosphere, it changes from a gas to a liquid. The vapor condenses into tiny droplets, forming clouds. This is a crucial step in cloud formation and marks the second phase of the water cycle.
Finally, when these water droplets in clouds combine and grow larger, they become too heavy to stay suspended in the air. This leads to precipitation, where water falls from the sky as rain, snow, sleet, or hail, depending on atmospheric conditions. The water then collects in bodies like rivers, lakes, or oceans, or it may seep into the ground to become groundwater.
This water can later re-enter the cycle through evaporation again. The water cycle is essential for replenishing freshwater supplies and maintaining ecosystems. It also influences weather patterns and climate. By understanding how water changes state—from liquid to gas and back again—we can better understand the natural processes that support life on Earth.
