APES 1.7 Hydrological Cycle

Hydrological Cycle

The continuous movement of water within the Earth and atmosphere, driven by solar energy.

Solar Energy

The energy from the sun that heats water, causing evaporation and driving the water cycle.

Evaporation

The process by which water is heated and transformed from liquid to vapor, contributing to cloud formation.

Precipitation

The return of water to the ground in various forms, such as rain, snow, or sleet.

Transpiration

The process by which water absorbed by plants is released back into the atmosphere.

Groundwater

Water that is absorbed into the soil and collected underground, playing a crucial role in the water cycle.

Universal Solvent

A property of water that allows it to dissolve many substances, contributing to its versatility in ecosystems.

Photosynthesis

The process by which plants use solar energy and water to produce food, releasing water vapor back into the atmosphere.

Ecosystem Element Movement

The role of the water cycle in facilitating the movement of essential elements through ecosystems.

Human Impact

The ways in which human activities, such as deforestation and dam construction, can alter the natural water cycle.