The Ultimate Water Cycle And Hydrological Cycle Quiz

Explanation
Evaporation is the correct answer because it refers to the process in which a liquid changes into a gas at a temperature below its boiling point. During evaporation, the molecules of the liquid gain enough energy to escape into the air as vapor. This process commonly occurs when heat is applied to a liquid, causing it to turn into a gas. Precipitation refers to the process of water falling from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface in the form of rain, snow, sleet, or hail. Condensation is the process of a gas or vapor turning into a liquid. Melting and freezing are processes that involve the change of state between solid and liquid.

Explanation
Precipitation refers to the moisture that falls from the sky in the form of rain, snow, sleet, or hail. It occurs when water vapor in the atmosphere condenses and forms larger droplets or ice crystals that become too heavy to remain suspended in the air. These droplets or crystals then fall to the ground due to gravity. Condensation, evaporation, melting, and freezing are all processes related to the transformation of water, but they do not specifically refer to the moisture that falls from the sky.

Explanation
When a puddle dries up, it means that the water in the puddle is turning into water vapor and escaping into the air. This process is called evaporation. Evaporation occurs when a liquid, in this case water, changes into a gas due to the heat energy from the surroundings. Therefore, evaporation is the correct answer because it accurately describes the phenomenon of the puddle drying up.

Explanation
Evaporation, condensation, and precipitation are all processes that occur in the water cycle. Evaporation is when water changes from a liquid to a gas, condensation is when water vapor cools and becomes a liquid again, and precipitation is when water falls from the atmosphere as rain, snow, sleet, or hail. These processes work together to circulate water on Earth, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh water for plants, animals, and humans.

Explanation
When a glass of cold liquid is placed in a warmer environment, the temperature difference causes the air around the glass to cool down. As a result, the water vapor in the air loses energy and condenses into liquid water droplets on the outside surface of the glass. This is known as condensation, and it is the process by which water vapor changes into liquid water. Therefore, the water collecting on the outside of the glass is an example of condensation.

Explanation
Fog is classified as a low cloud because it forms close to the ground, usually within a few meters. It is composed of tiny water droplets suspended in the air, which reduces visibility and creates a hazy or misty appearance. Unlike other types of clouds that form at higher altitudes, fog occurs near the surface due to specific atmospheric conditions such as high humidity and cooling temperatures. Fog can be widespread and persistent, often causing travel disruptions and reducing visibility to dangerous levels.

Explanation
The correct answer is cirrus, stratus, and cumulus. These are the three basic types of clouds commonly observed in the sky. Cirrus clouds are thin and wispy, often appearing high in the atmosphere. Stratus clouds are flat and featureless, covering the sky like a blanket. Cumulus clouds are large and puffy, with a distinct cauliflower-like appearance. These three types of clouds represent different atmospheric conditions and play a crucial role in weather patterns.

Explanation
The statement accurately describes the hydrologic cycle, which is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth. It involves processes such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff, which determine the distribution and availability of water on the planet. Therefore, the answer "True" is correct as it aligns with the definition and purpose of the hydrologic cycle.

Explanation
The correct answer is 3%. This means that out of all the water on Earth, only 3% is not salt water and is suitable for drinking. The majority of the Earth's water is found in oceans and seas, which is salt water and cannot be consumed without desalination. The remaining 3% includes freshwater sources such as lakes, rivers, and groundwater, which are essential for human survival and various other purposes.

Explanation
The sun is the driving force of the entire water cycle because it provides the energy needed for evaporation. When the sun's heat reaches the Earth's surface, it causes water to evaporate from oceans, lakes, and rivers. This water vapor then rises into the atmosphere where it cools and condenses to form clouds. Eventually, the condensed water droplets in the clouds fall back to the Earth as precipitation, completing the water cycle. Therefore, the statement is true.