Final answer:
The water cycle is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the Earth's surface. The height of waves is affected by factors such as wind speed, duration of wind, fetch, and depth of water. The movement of ocean water is influenced by factors like wind, tides, and temperature/density differences.
Step-by-step explanation:
Water Cycle
The water cycle, also known as the hydrological cycle, is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the Earth's surface. It involves the processes of evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff. Evaporation occurs when water turns into vapor and rises into the atmosphere. Condensation happens when the water vapor cools and turns back into liquid, forming clouds. Precipitation occurs when water droplets in clouds become too heavy and fall to the ground as rain, snow, sleet, or hail. Runoff refers to the water that flows on the surface and eventually makes its way back to the oceans, lakes, and rivers.
Factors Affecting Wave Height
The height of waves in the ocean is influenced by several factors. These include:
- Wind Speed: The stronger the wind, the higher the waves it can generate.
- Duration of Wind: If the wind blows for a longer period of time, it can produce larger waves.
- Fetch: Fetch refers to the distance over which the wind blows. Waves traveling over a longer fetch have more time to grow in size.
- Depth of Water: In shallow waters, waves tend to be steeper and higher compared to deep waters where they spread out and lose energy.
Factors Affecting Movement of Ocean Water
The movement of ocean water is influenced by several factors, including:
- Wind: Winds can create surface currents, with the direction and speed of the current determined by the wind direction and strength.
- Tides: Tides are caused by the gravitational pull of the Moon and Sun. They create alternating patterns of high and low water levels, resulting in the movement of ocean water.
- Temperature and Density: Differences in temperature and density can cause water to move vertically and horizontally, driving ocean currents.
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