In the water cycle, the main processes involved are evaporation, condensation, and precipitation. Here's how each part matches the descriptions given:
1. Evaporation: This process moves water from the surface to the atmosphere. It occurs when heat from the sun causes water from oceans, lakes, rivers, or even puddles to change into water vapor and rise into the air.
2. Condensation: Condensation moves water from the atmosphere to the surface of the Earth. It happens when the water vapor in the air cools down and turns back into liquid water, forming clouds.
3. Precipitation: Precipitation causes water vapor in the atmosphere to become rain. This process includes rain, snow, sleet, or hail falling from the clouds to the ground due to gravity pulling the condensed water droplets or ice crystals down.
Understanding these three main processes in the water cycle helps to explain how water continuously moves and cycles between the Earth's surface and the atmosphere, ensuring a balance in the distribution of water on our planet.