Question 1: Define the term 'evaporation' as it relates to the water cycle.

Answer: Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid to a vapour due to heating from the Sun.

Question 2: Explain how transpiration contributes to the water cycle.

Answer: Transpiration is the process by which water vapour is released from plants into the atmosphere through their leaves, contributing to atmospheric moisture.

Question 3: List the main processes involved in the water cycle.

Answer: The main processes are evaporation, condensation, precipitation, runoff, infiltration, and transpiration.

Question 4: Describe the role of condensation in the water cycle.

Answer: Condensation is the process by which water vapour cools and changes back into liquid droplets, forming clouds.

Question 1: If a lake loses 500 litres of water through evaporation in one day, how much water is lost in cubic meters? (1 cubic metre = 1000 litres)

Answer: 0.5

Question 2: Calculate the amount of water vapour (in grams) produced from 2 litres of water during evaporation at standard temperature and pressure. (Density of water vapour approx. 0.6 g/L)

Answer: 1.2

Question 1: Design a simple experiment to demonstrate evaporation. Include the variables you would control and the safety precautions you would take.

Answer: A possible experiment involves placing a shallow dish of water in a sunny spot and measuring the water level over time. Variables to control include temperature, air flow, and water amount. Safety precautions include avoiding spillage and ensuring the water source is clean to prevent contamination.

Question 1: A study recorded the following daily water loss (in litres) from a plant over five days: Day 1 - 1.2, Day 2 - 1.5, Day 3 - 1.3, Day 4 - 1.6, Day 5 - 1.4. What is the average daily water loss? Show your calculations.

Answer: 1.4 litres

Question 2: Based on the data, what can be inferred about the plant's transpiration rate over the five days?

Answer: The transpiration rate appears to be relatively consistent, with slight variations, indicating stable environmental conditions.

Question 1: Explain how understanding the water cycle can help improve water management in agriculture.

Answer: Understanding the water cycle helps farmers optimise irrigation by predicting rainfall and moisture levels, reducing water wastage and ensuring crops receive adequate water.

Question 2: Describe a modern technology that utilises knowledge of the water cycle to benefit society.

Answer: Rainwater harvesting systems use understanding of the water cycle to collect and store rainwater for domestic and agricultural use, reducing reliance on piped water supplies.