Question

1. look at the image of the hydrologic cycle.
2. choose three parts of the cycle (examples: evaporation, condensation, precipitation, runoff, infiltration, transpiration).
3. write the name of the part you chose and a short sentence in your own words explaining what happens in that step.
4. write one sentence explaining why the hydrologic cycle is important for life on earth.

part 1: ______________________________
explanation: ________________________________________________
part 2: ______________________________
explanation: ________________________________________________
part 3: ______________________________
explanation: ________________________________________________
extension: why is the hydrologic cycle important for life on earth?
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________

Explanation:

Part 1: Evaporation

Liquid water (like from oceans, lakes) turns into water vapor (gas) and rises into the atmosphere due to heat (usually from the sun).

Part 2: Condensation

Water vapor in the atmosphere cools down and changes back into liquid water droplets, forming clouds.

Part 3: Precipitation

When cloud droplets become heavy enough, they fall from the clouds to Earth’s surface as rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

Extension: Why is the hydrologic cycle important for life on Earth?

The hydrologic cycle is important because it continuously distributes water across the planet, providing fresh water for drinking, supporting plant growth (which is vital for food chains), and maintaining ecosystems, ensuring that all living organisms have access to the water they need to survive.

Answer:

When cloud droplets become heavy enough, they fall from the clouds to Earth’s surface as rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

Extension: Why is the hydrologic cycle important for life on Earth?

The hydrologic cycle is important because it continuously distributes water across the planet, providing fresh water for drinking, supporting plant growth (which is vital for food chains), and maintaining ecosystems, ensuring that all living organisms have access to the water they need to survive.