Condensation Water vapor condenses into the atmosphere to form clouds (back into liquid form). Occurs when the air temperature declines As the clouds form, they move and spread. Once the clouds get too “full” the water vapor is released in precipitation.

Precipitation The main forms of precipitation are rain, hail, snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Precipitation brings the water back to the ground where it originated.

Accumulation Runoff from hills and mountains accumulates (builds up) in lakes, rivers, and oceans. When it falls on land it becomes groundwater for plants & animals.

Runoff Water that flows over the land’s surface Runoff can pick up soil contaminants such as petroleum, pesticides, or fertilizers. Urbanization increases runoff - surfaces cannot soak up the water or allow it to seep down into an aquifer. Less water that seeps down, lowers the water table Makes droughts worse, especially for farmers and others who depend on water wells. Excess water is forced directly into streams, where erosion can be a major problem.

Evaporation When the heat from the sun warms up water (liquid) and turns it into water vapor (gas).

Transpiration When water evaporates from plants. Plants, such as trees, lose water out of their leaves after they have absorbed water from the ground. Transpiration helps keep plants cool in the same way that perspiration keeps animals, such as humans, cool. The rate at which water will evaporate or transpire from plants depends on the temperature, wind, and humidity.

How does the Earth’s water cycle stay balanced? The amount of precipitation that falls equals the amount of water that evaporates!

SURPRISE!!! What is it?