 Objective
Identify the components of the water cycle and observe the water cycle
by constructing a simple, miniature model.
Materials Needed
- Clear plastic bag
- Measuring spoon
- Rubber band or
twist-tie
- Masking tape
Procedure
1. Pour 2 teaspoons of water into a clear plastic bag.
2. Blow air inside the
bag with your mouth and quickly seal the bag closed with a rubber band,
twist-tie, or zipper-closure.
3. Place the bag on a
sunny window ledge or tape directly to the window pane. Periodically
look at the bag throughout the day. What changes do you see?
Variation
For faster results, make two bags. Put cold water in the first bag and
hot water in the second bag. Compare the two bags.
Conclusion
Water molecules are constantly on the move in what is called the
water cycle (or hydrologic cycle). Heat from the sun causes the
water to evaporate and become a vapor. As the water vapor cools,
it condenses, forming tiny droplets which gather to form clouds.
As the droplets get larger, they become heavier causing them to fall to
the ground as precipitation (like rain, sleet, or snow). Some of
this precipitation joins lakes and streams (called surface water),
and some of it soaks into the ground where it becomes groundwater.
The process of water soaking into the ground is called infiltration,
or recharge. |
