Water Cycle - Biology

1. Fundamental Concepts

Definition: The water cycle, also known as the hydrologic cycle, describes the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth.
Key Processes: Evaporation, condensation, precipitation, collection, and transpiration.
Importance: The water cycle is crucial for maintaining life on Earth by distributing water and regulating climate.

Evaporation: $$\text{Water} \rightarrow \text{Water Vapor}$$

Condensation: $$\text{Water Vapor} \rightarrow \text{Liquid Water}$$

Precipitation: $$\text{Rain, Snow, Sleet, Hail}$$

Collection: $$\text{Surface Runoff, Infiltration, Groundwater Recharge}$$

Transpiration: $$\text{Water Loss from Plants}$$

Problem: Describe the process of evaporation in a lake.

Sun heats the lake, increasing the energy of water molecules.
Water molecules at the surface gain enough energy to break free and enter the atmosphere as water vapor.

Validation: Observe a lake on a hot day; you will see the water level decrease over time due to evaporation.

Problem: Explain how the water cycle contributes to the formation of clouds.

Validation: Observe the sky on a humid day; you will see clouds forming as water vapor condenses.

Visual Strategy: Use diagrams to illustrate the different stages of the water cycle.
Error-Proofing: Double-check the sequence of processes to ensure they follow the correct order.
Concept Reinforcement: Apply the acronym "ECPCT" (Evaporation, Condensation, Precipitation, Collection, Transpiration) to remember the key processes.