Weather, Water, and the Atmosphere
The atmosphere
What the atmosphere is
The atmosphere is the layer of gases around Earth. It includes air, which is mostly nitrogen and oxygen. The atmosphere helps living things survive and affects weather.
Why air matters
Air is matter even though you cannot usually see it. It has mass, takes up space, and exerts pressure.
Weather vs. climate
Weather is the day-to-day condition of the atmosphere, such as rain, wind, or sunshine. Climate is the long-term pattern of weather in a place.
Which is weather?
Weather describes short-term atmospheric conditions.
Correct answer: Today's rain
The water cycle
Water moves in a cycle
The water cycle moves water through evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection. Sunlight heats water so it evaporates into the air. Water vapor cools and condenses into clouds, then falls as rain or snow.
Water cycle steps
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1
Step 1: Sun heats water and evaporation occurs
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2
Step 2: Water vapor rises and cools
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3
Step 3: Condensation forms clouds
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4
Step 4: Precipitation returns water to Earth
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5
Step 5: Water collects in rivers, lakes, and oceans
What is condensation?
Condensation is the change from gas to liquid.
Correct answer: Water vapor turning into liquid water
Name one form of precipitation.
Any one form of precipitation is correct.
Correct answer: Rain, snow, sleet, or hail.
What is the difference between weather and climate?
Weather changes daily, while climate describes typical patterns over many years.
Correct answer: Weather is short-term; climate is long-term.