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Multiple Choice
Which part of the water cycle requires a direct input of solar energy?
A
Infiltration
B
Evaporation
C
Condensation
D
Precipitation
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the water cycle, which includes processes such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and infiltration. Each process plays a role in the movement of water through the environment.
Step 2: Recognize that solar energy is the primary driver of the water cycle. It provides the energy needed to convert liquid water into water vapor, a process known as evaporation.
Step 3: Analyze the options provided: Infiltration refers to water soaking into the ground, which does not require solar energy. Condensation involves the cooling of water vapor to form liquid droplets, which is driven by temperature changes rather than direct solar energy.
Step 4: Precipitation is the process where condensed water droplets fall to the ground as rain, snow, or other forms. This process is influenced by gravity and atmospheric conditions, not solar energy.
Step 5: Conclude that evaporation is the part of the water cycle that directly requires solar energy, as it involves the transformation of liquid water into vapor through the input of heat from the sun.