Student Projects/Water Cycle

THE WATER CYCLE

Definition

Water cycle is defined as the way that water moves between being water vapour to liquid water and then back to water vapour. An example of water cycle is when water evaporates from oceans and then returns to the land in the form of rain.

The water cycle describes the existence and movement of water on, in and above the earth. Earth's water is always in movement and is always changing states, from liquid to vapour to ice and back again.

Some of the main stages of water cycle. Those are: Evaporation

Condensation

precipitation

Collection

Evaporation

This is the first stage in the water cycle. It is a process when warmth from the sun causes water on the earth to rise into the air and turns into water vapour.

Condensation

Condensation is the second stage in the water cycle. In this stage the water vapour in the air changes into a water droplets. This water droplets come close together and form a cloud's or fog in the sky.

Precipitation

The clouds then pour down as precipitation due to wind or temperature changes. This occurs because the water droplets combine to form a bigger cloud water droplets and when it can't hold anymore water it precipitates in the form of rain, snow or hail.

Collection

This is the last stage in the water cycle. When the water falls from the clouds in the form of rain, snow or hail collects in the oceans, lakes, rivers, etc. Most will soak into the ground and will collect as underground water.

Importance of water cycle

Water is essential to life on earth. All living organisms require water because life is dependent on water. Living beings cannot survive without water. It controls the ecological function of aquatic life and increases the level of dissolved oxygen. The water cycle also involves the exchange of energy, which leads to temperature changes. When water evaporates,it takes up energy from its surroundings and cools the environment. When it condenses, it releases energy and warms the environment. These heat exchanges influence climate.