Processes in the Water Cycle

Water Cycle – Processes Objectives To be able to explain how water moves through the drainage basin. To be able to explain the role of lapse rates in cloud formation.

Water Cycle – Processes Starter Water has one way in to a drainage basin and three ways out. What are they?

Water Cycle – Processes Task Study the diagram on page 102. What role does vegetation play in the drainage basin water cycle? How might precipitation end up leaving the water cycle as leakage? “If human action altered the channel storage it will alter the whole drainage basin” – why is this correct? Complete the activity on page 103.

Water Cycle – Processes Task Read the information on page 103 on condensation. 5. Why do different types of condensation occur? What impact do they have on the water cycle?

Water Cycle – Processes Task What is this diagram telling you about the formation of clouds? Listen to this talk on the subject – Adiabatic processes

Water Cycle – Processes Task 6. Draw a copy of this diagram and annotate it to explain the role of lapse rates in cloud formation.

Water Cycle Processes Catchment Hydrology – Homework Read pages 104 – 105 and carry out your own research. What is meant by “catchment hydrology”? What factors influence catchment hydrology? Why is an understanding of catchment hydrology important?