The Hydrological Cycle

The Hydrological Cycle

• What you need to know:

• Be able to draw a diagram of the hydrological cycle.

• Describe its main elements.

• Explain how balance is maintained within the system.

What is the Hydrological Cycle?

The hydrological cycle is the system which describes

the distribution and movement of water between the

earth and its atmosphere. The model involves the

continual circulation of water between the oceans, the

atmosphere, vegetation and land.

The Hydrological cycleMake a copy of the

Hydrological cycle in

your notes.

Now create a table like the one below. Write the key words on your diagram

into the correct column of your table:

The Hydrological Cycle: Summary of Processes

Inputs Stores Processes / transfers

The water cycle balance

precipitation

Under the ground

A closed system

Generation of electricity

(hydroelectric power stations and reservoirs)

Paving, concrete, and the

compacting of soils

Altering the nature of the

vegetation (including

deforestation)

The mining of ground

water for use in agriculture and industry

Large amounts of water vapour released into the atmosphere from industrial activity

Agricultural practices

ranging from irrigation to ploughing

Increases water surface area allowing for

greater evaporationDisrupts sediment in

river channel and deprives downstream

of discharge

Decreases transpiration and increases run off. Soil washes away

into river channels and clogs them up

leading to increased flooding Increases cloud

cover leading to increased

precipitation and decreased

evaporationCan lead to overall

cooling of atmosphere

Increases space available for

groundwater storage thus decreases

discharge in channel and may impact

aquatic life

Disrupts surface run off, alters

natural pathways of water flow.

Prevents infiltration, decreases the amount of

water in storage as groundwater. Increases run-off and discharge in

channel leading to flooding

5