8th Grade Water Cycle

All you need to know about the water cycle at an 8th grade level!

What is the water cycle?

The continuous movement of water on, above, and below Earth's surface, driven by the sun's energy and gravity.

What is Evaporation in the water cycle?

The process where the sun's energy heats water, turning it into a gas (water vapor) that rises into the atmosphere.

What is Transpiration?

The process where plants release water vapor into the air through their leaves.

What is Condensation?

The process where warm, moist air rises, cools, and water vapor turns back into liquid water droplets, forming clouds.

What is Precipitation and what forms can it take?

When clouds become too heavy, water falls back to Earth as rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

What is Collection in the water cycle?

The process where precipitated water collects in oceans, rivers, and lakes.

Explain Infiltration and Groundwater.

Infiltration is when precipitation soaks into the ground, becoming groundwater that can be absorbed by plants or flow into rivers and oceans.

What is Runoff?

Water that doesn't soak into the ground but flows over the land surface into streams, rivers, and eventually the ocean.

Why is the water cycle important for life on Earth?

It is essential for all life, providing continuous circulation of water vital for agriculture, ecosystems, and human health.

How do human activities impact the water cycle?

Human activities can affect the water cycle's movement, storage, and cleanliness.