1. The sun
the main source of energy that drives the water cycle. Sunshine is radiant energy. It goes through the air or space.
2. Hydrosphere
The water on the Earth. Includes oceans, lakes, ponds, rivers, streams, polar ice caps, glaciers, and icebergs
ater cycle- (hydrologic cycle)
The continuous movement of water from the oceans and freshwater sources to the air and land and finally back to the oceans. Also called the hydrologic cycle.
Fresh water
a product of the water cycle. Only about 2.8% of all the water on earth.
Evaporation
process by which energy from the sun turns liquid water into water vapor (a gas). 1st step of the water cycle.
7. Condensation
process by which water returns to the Earth in the form of rain, snow, sleet, or hail. 3rd step of the water cycle.
8. Watershed
Land area in which surface runoff drains into a river or system of rivers and streams.
9. Surface runoff
rain or melted snow that does not evaporate or soak into the ground. Ends up in streams and rivers.
10. Standing water
Surface runoff that gets caught in low places, forming ponds and lakes.
11. Ground water
water that soaks into the ground. Will eventually flow underground into a lake or ocean.
12. Glacier
A huge mass of slow moving snow and ice.
13. Infiltration
The seepage of water into soil or rock.
14. Transpiration
The passage of water through a plant from the roots to the leaves into the atmosphere.