Biogeochemical Cycles - The Water Cycle

These flashcards cover key concepts from the water cycle as part of biogeochemical cycles, including processes such as evaporation, condensation, and the movement of water through the environment.

What is the water cycle?

The water cycle is the continuous movement of water through the atmosphere, oceans, land, and living organisms.

What are the three main components of biogeochemical cycles?

Bio (living world), Geo (earth), and Chemical.

What is evaporation?

Evaporation is the process where liquid water is converted into water vapor.

What happens to water during evaporation?

Water changes from a liquid state to a gas state and moves into the atmosphere.

What factors influence the amount of water vapor in the air?

Geographical location (arid vs humid climates) and seasonal conditions.

How does humidity affect sound perception in the air?

In humid conditions, sound is muffled by water vapor, whereas dry air allows sound to travel further.

What is condensation?

Condensation is the process where water vapor in the air is changed back into liquid water.

What role does condensation play in the atmosphere?

It helps form clouds by creating small water droplets that remain suspended in the air.

What are the conditions necessary for precipitation to occur?

Appropriate temperature and atmospheric pressure.

What is precipitation?

Precipitation is any form of water, such as rain or snow, that falls from clouds to the Earth's surface.

What is surface runoff?

Surface runoff is the movement of water on the Earth's surface that occurs when the ground cannot absorb more water.

What is the role of rivers in the water cycle?

Rivers collect runoff and eventually lead to oceans, completing the water cycle.

What is percolation?

Percolation is the process where water soaks into the ground, creating underground reservoirs.

What are aquifers?

Aquifers are underground layers of water-bearing rock that store freshwater.

What is spring water?

Spring water is groundwater that flows naturally to the surface, often resulting in clean, filtered water.

What is transpiration?

Transpiration is the process by which plants release water vapor into the atmosphere from their leaves.

Why do tropical rainforests experience frequent rainfall?

High levels of transpiration lead to increased evaporation and condensation, causing rain to fall multiple times a day.

How does groundwater contribute to the water cycle?

Groundwater is absorbed by plants or can flow back to the surface, feeding rivers and providing clean water.

What is the significance of the ocean in the water cycle?

The ocean is a major source of evaporation, contributing significantly to the water vapor in the atmosphere.

What happens to impurities in water during evaporation?

Many impurities are left behind, resulting in cleaner water vapor.

What is karst topography?

Karst topography refers to landscape formations resulting from the dissolution of soluble rocks, often featuring caves and underground lakes.

How does water flow after precipitation?

Water flows downhill, seeking the lowest level through rivers and streams.

What types of precipitation can occur?

Precipitation can be rain, snow, sleet, hail, or freezing drizzle.

What is the relationship between evaporation and condensation in the water cycle?

Evaporation and condensation are opposing processes that help circulate water through the cycle.

How does vegetation affect local climates in terms of the water cycle?

Dense vegetation increases transpiration, leading to higher humidity and rainfall.

What happens when evaporation exceeds precipitation?

When evaporation exceeds precipitation, it can lead to reduced water levels and drought.

What is the importance of the water cycle?

The water cycle is essential for sustaining life by supplying water to all organisms.