Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) Subject Area Practice Test

Which process is associated with transpiration, evaporation, precipitation, condensation, runoff, and infiltration?

1. Carbon cycle

2. Nitrogen cycle

3. Hydrologic cycle

4. Oxygen cycle

The correct answer is: Hydrologic cycle

The process associated with transpiration, evaporation, precipitation, condensation, runoff, and infiltration is the hydrologic cycle. This cycle describes the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth. Transpiration refers to the release of water vapor from plant leaves into the atmosphere. Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas, usually from bodies of water, land surfaces, or plants. Condensation follows as water vapor cools and changes back to liquid form, creating clouds. Precipitation occurs when the condensed water falls back to the Earth's surface in the form of rain, snow, sleet, or hail. Runoff describes the movement of water, usually from precipitation, across the land, eventually flowing into rivers, lakes, and oceans. Finally, infiltration is the process by which water seeps into the ground, replenishing groundwater supplies. Each of these processes plays a crucial role in the movement and distribution of water, highlighting the hydrologic cycle's significance in maintaining Earth's ecosystems and weather patterns.