Water Cycle

Key Notes :

  1. Water Cycle Basics:
    • The water cycle, also known as the hydrologic cycle, is the continuous process by which water circulates on Earth.
  2. Evaporation:
    • Water from rivers, lakes, and oceans is heated by the sun.
    • This heat causes the water to evaporate, turning it from a liquid into water vapor (a gas).
  3. Condensation:
    • Water vapor rises into the atmosphere and cools at higher altitudes.
    • When it cools, it changes back into tiny water droplets and forms clouds.
  4. Precipitation:
    • When the cloud droplets combine and become heavy, they fall to the ground as precipitation.
    • Precipitation can take various forms, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.
  5. Collection:
    • Precipitation that falls on the land can collect in various ways: in rivers, lakes, and underground as groundwater.
    • This collected water flows back into oceans and other bodies of water, continuing the cycle.
  6. Transpiration:
    • Plants play a role in the water cycle through a process called transpiration.
    • They release water vapor from their leaves into the air.
  7. Importance of the Water Cycle:
    • The water cycle is vital for maintaining life on Earth as it provides fresh water for drinking, agriculture, and other essential needs.
    • It helps regulate the Earth’s temperature and weather patterns.
  8. Human Impact:
    • Human activities can affect the water cycle through pollution and water consumption.
    • It’s important to use water resources wisely and reduce pollution to protect the environment.
  9. Local Water Cycle:
    • The water cycle operates on both a global and local scale. For instance, the water cycle in your region is influenced by local weather patterns.
  10. Renewable Resource:
    • Water is a renewable resource because it constantly goes through the water cycle, but it’s crucial to use it responsibly.
  11. Conservation:
    • Conserving water at home and in your community can help ensure there’s enough clean water for everyone and for the environment.
  12. Cycle Continuation:
    • The water cycle is a never-ending process, and water you use today could have been part of the cycle for millions of years.

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