The Water Cycle: Condensation and Precipitation (Part 2)

What You'll Learn

Weathering breaks rocks into smaller pieces through physical processes (like freezing water expanding in cracks) and chemical processes (like acid rain dissolving limestone).

Key Words

water cycle
evaporation

Materials Needed

spray bottle
cups
thermometer
rain gauge
cotton balls
food coloring

Safety First

Protect your work surface with newspaper or plastic.
Adult supervision recommended.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Look at the vocabulary words and write a definition for each in your own words.

Step 2 — Do

Create a model of the water cycle in a bowl: place warm water in a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, put ice on top, and observe condensation and precipitation.

Step 3 — Observe

Watch carefully for any changes and note the time.

Step 4 — Record

Create a data table to organize your measurements.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What powers the water cycle?