APES Notes 1.7 - Hydrologic (Water) Cycle

Updated: November 20, 2024

Jordan Dischinger-Smedes


Summary

This video explains the hydrologic cycle and its significance in transferring water between sources and sinks. It delves into the movement of water in solid, liquid, and gas states across various reservoirs, emphasizing the role of solar energy in driving this cycle. The processes of evaporation, transpiration, evapotranspiration, runoff, and infiltration are detailed, showcasing how water transitions through the atmosphere, underground, and surface bodies. Additionally, it touches on how permeability affects water movement and the risks of pollutants accumulating in surface water.


Introduction to the Hydrologic Cycle

Explanation of the hydrologic cycle and its importance in moving water between sources and sinks. Objective to understand the steps and reservoir interactions in the cycle.

Water States and Reservoir Movements

Focus on the movement of water in different states (solid, liquid, gas) between various sources and reservoirs. Examples of precipitation and explanation of reservoirs in the cycle.

Energy Driving the Hydrologic Cycle

Discussion on the role of solar energy in driving the hydrologic cycle. Emphasis on the sun's impact on water bodies and the transformation of water from liquid to gas.

Evaporation and Transpiration

Explanation of evaporation and transpiration processes. Details on how water transitions into vapor in the atmosphere and how plants draw water from the ground to their leaves.

Evapotranspiration and Total Water Movement

Description of evapotranspiration as the combined process of water movement through evaporation and transpiration. Importance of sunlight in driving these processes.

Runoff and Infiltration

Explanation of runoff and infiltration processes in the hydrologic cycle. Differentiation between surface runoff and infiltration into underground water sources.

Permeability and Water Movement

Importance of permeability in allowing water to infiltrate into the ground or causing runoff. Impact of permeable surfaces on recharging aquifers.

Surface Water Recharge and Pollutant Concerns

Discussion on how runoff recharges surface waters and the risks of pollutants gathering in surface bodies of water. Preview of upcoming water unit topics.


FAQ

Q: What is the hydrologic cycle?

A: The hydrologic cycle is the continuous process through which water is circulated on Earth, involving evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.

Q: How does solar energy drive the hydrologic cycle?

A: Solar energy drives the hydrologic cycle by heating the Earth's surface, causing water to evaporate and rise into the atmosphere, where it eventually condenses and falls back to the Earth as precipitation.

Q: What is evapotranspiration?

A: Evapotranspiration is the combined process of water movement through evaporation from surfaces such as water bodies and transpiration from plants.

Q: What is the role of infiltration in the hydrologic cycle?

A: Infiltration is the process by which water seeps into the ground and recharges groundwater sources, playing a crucial role in replenishing aquifers and sustaining underground water supplies.

Q: How does runoff contribute to the hydrologic cycle?

A: Runoff is the flow of water over the Earth's surface into bodies of water, helping to replenish surface water sources and carry nutrients and pollutants, impacting the overall water quality.

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