The Water Cycle

Evaporation

The process by which water from lakes, seas, and rivers is heated by the sun and rises in the atmosphere as water vapor.

Evapotranspiration

The combined process of water evaporating from the soil and being given off by plants through transpiration.

Condensation

The process of water vapor in the atmosphere cooling and forming clouds around tiny particles of dust.

Precipitation

Any form of water, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail, that falls to the earth's surface from clouds.

Interception

The process in which some of the precipitation is caught and held by leaves, branches, and other vegetation before reaching the ground.

Infiltration

The downward entry of water into the soil.

Percolation

The downward movement of water in the soil through the pore spaces by the force of gravity.

Human Impact on the Water Cycle

The effects of human activities, such as deforestation, agricultural practices, and air pollution, on the natural water cycle.