Explain the water cycle with the help of a neatly labelled diagram
Answers
Answer:
the continuous circulation of water from the Earth surface to the atmosphere and back to the earth is known as water cycle
The water cycle, also known as the hydrologic cycle or the hydrological cycle, describes the continuous movement of water on, above and below the surface of the Earth.
Stages of Water Cycle
There are many processes involved in the movement of water. Listed below are different stages of the water cycle.
1. Evaporation
The sun is the ultimate source of energy, and it powers most of the evaporation that occurs on earth. Evaporation generally happens when water molecules at the surface of water bodies become excited and rise into the air. These molecules with the highest kinetic energy accumulate into water vapour clouds. Evaporation usually takes place below the boiling point of water. Another process called evapotranspiration occurs when evaporation occurs through the leaves of plants. This process contributes to a large percentage of water in the atmosphere.
2. Sublimation
Sublimation occurs when snow or ice changes directly into water vapour without becoming water. It usually occurs as a result of dry winds and low humidity.
3. Condensation
The water vapour that accumulated in the atmosphere eventually cools down due to the low temperatures found at high altitudes. These vapours become tiny droplets of water and ice, eventually coming together to form clouds.
4. Precipitation
Above 0 degrees centigrade, the vapours will condense into water droplets.
5. Infiltration
Rainwater gets absorbed into the ground through the process of infiltration.
6. Runoff
If the water from rainfall does not form aquifers, it follows gravity, often flowing down the sides of mountains and hills; eventually forming rivers. This process is called runoff.
