Which one of the following is NOT a part of the water cycle?
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1 point
precipitation
erosion
evaporation
condensation
erosion
Erosion is NOT a part of the water cycle. The water cycle consists of four main processes: evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection or runoff. Erosion, on the other hand, is the process of the movement and transport of sediment or soil by water, wind, or ice. While water plays a role in erosion, it is not considered as part of the water cycle itself.
To determine which of the given options is NOT a part of the water cycle, let's review what the water cycle involves:
1. Evaporation: This is the process by which water changes from a liquid state to a vapor or gas when exposed to heat. It occurs when water bodies such as lakes, rivers, and oceans heat up due to the Sun's energy.
2. Condensation: This is the opposite of evaporation. It involves the conversion of water vapor into liquid water. It occurs when the warm, moist air rises and cools, causing the water vapor to condense into tiny droplets, forming clouds.
3. Precipitation: This is the process by which water falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface. Precipitation includes rain, snow, sleet, and hail.
4. Erosion: This is the process of wearing away or carrying away materials by water, wind, or ice. It involves the movement of sediments, soil, or rocks from one place to another.
Now, comparing the options given:
1. Precipitation: This is a part of the water cycle as mentioned before.
2. Erosion: Although erosion involves the movement of water, it is not a direct part of the water cycle. Erosion occurs after precipitation, when the water interacts with landforms and starts the process of wearing away or transporting materials.
3. Evaporation: This is a part of the water cycle as mentioned before.
4. Condensation: This is a part of the water cycle as mentioned before.
Therefore, the correct answer is "erosion."