Which makes precipitation and runoff possible? (1 point) Responses vapor vapor gravity gravity groundwater groundwater radiant energy
vapor
The correct answer is: vapor.
To determine which factor makes precipitation and runoff possible, we need to understand the process of precipitation and runoff.
Precipitation refers to the process of water falling from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface in the form of rain, snow, sleet, or hail. Runoff, on the other hand, occurs when water flows over the land surface, eventually making its way into rivers, lakes, or oceans.
The factor that directly influences both precipitation and runoff is gravity. Gravity is responsible for pulling water down from the atmosphere during precipitation and for causing the water to flow downhill, leading to runoff.
However, it is important to note that other factors indirectly contribute to both precipitation and runoff. These include:
1. Vapor: Water vapor in the atmosphere plays a crucial role in the formation of precipitation. When warm air rises and cools, it condenses into water droplets or ice crystals, forming clouds. Eventually, these droplets or crystals come together and fall as precipitation.
2. Groundwater: Groundwater, which refers to water stored beneath the Earth's surface, also contributes to runoff. When the precipitation falls to the ground, it can infiltrate the soil and replenish groundwater reservoirs. The excess water not absorbed by the soil then flows over the land surface, adding to runoff.
3. Radiant energy: Radiant energy from the sun drives the water cycle, which includes processes like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation. The heat energy from the sun enables the evaporation of water from sea surfaces, lakes, and even land surfaces. The evaporated water later condenses to form clouds, leading to precipitation.
While these factors play important roles in the water cycle, gravity is the primary factor responsible for making precipitation and runoff possible. It ensures that water falls from the atmosphere as precipitation and guides its flow over the land during runoff.