The water cycle
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Explainer Video
Summary
The water cycle
In a nutshell
All living things need water to survive which is why the recycling of water during the water cycle is so important. The water cycle has three main stages: evaporation, condensation and precipitation.
The water cycle
1. | Energy provided by the Sun causes water to evaporate into water vapour from the land, sea and plants via a process called transpiration. |
Warm air rises. Therefore, it carries warm water vapour upwards. | |
As the water gets higher, it cools and condenses to form clouds. | |
2. | Water falls from the clouds. This is known as precipitation and comes in the form of rain, hail or snow. This provides plants and animals with fresh water. |
3. | This water then drains into the sea and the whole cycle starts again. |
FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions
How are clouds formed?
Clouds are formed when energy provided by the sun causes water to evaporate into water vapour from the land, sea and plants. Warm air rises, it therefore carries warm water vapour upwards. As water gets higher, it cools and condenses to form clouds.
Why is the water cycle important?
All living things need water to survive which is why the recycling of water during the water cycle is so important.
What are the three main stages of the water cycle?
The water cycle has three main stages: evaporation, condensation and precipitation.