Which statement best describes the water cycle? A. When liquid is heated enough to change to a gas, it is called precipitation B. When liquid is heated enough to change to a gas, it is called evaporation C. When liquid is heated enough to change to a gas, it is called condensation. D. When liquid is heated enough to change to a gas, it is called groundwater.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is B: When liquid is heated enough to change to a gas, it is called evaporation.
Explanation:
The water cycle is a continuous process that involves the movement of water on, above, and below the Earth’s surface. It includes several key processes such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and infiltration. Each of these plays a role in maintaining the balance of water on Earth.
Evaporation occurs when liquid water is heated, often by the sun, and changes into water vapor (gas). This process usually takes place in bodies of water like oceans, lakes, and rivers. The heat energy causes water molecules to move faster and break free from the liquid phase, transitioning into the gas phase. Evaporation is crucial because it helps to move water from the surface of the Earth into the atmosphere, where it can later condense to form clouds.
Condensation, on the other hand, is the process in which water vapor cools and turns back into liquid form. This often happens when warm, moist air rises and cools at higher altitudes, forming clouds. The opposite of evaporation, condensation is an important part of the water cycle, as it leads to the formation of precipitation.
Precipitation is the next stage in the cycle, which occurs when condensed water in the clouds becomes heavy enough to fall back to Earth as rain, snow, sleet, or hail. This replenishes water on the Earth’s surface, which can then be absorbed into the ground or flow into rivers and oceans.
Finally, groundwater refers to the water that is stored underground in aquifers and other permeable layers of rock. It is not directly part of the evaporation or condensation processes but plays an important role in providing water to plants, animals, and humans.
The correct process for when liquid water changes into gas is evaporation, not precipitation, condensation, or groundwater.
