What term describes the downward transfer of water from the atmosphere to the ground, including rain, snow, sleet and hail?

What term describes the downward transfer of water from the atmosphere to the ground, including rain, snow, sleet and hail?

• A. Evaporation
• B. Condensation
• C. Precipitation
• D. Surface runoff

Answer: (C)

The main idea being tested is the process by which water moves from the atmosphere down to the land in forms that fall from the sky. This is called precipitation. It covers rain, snow, sleet, and hail, all of which are ways moisture leaves the air and reaches the surface. Evaporation is the opposite, where water becomes vapor and rises. Condensation is when water vapor cooling forms clouds, not the actual falling to the ground. Surface runoff describes water that moves over the surface after precipitation, not the act of the moisture leaving the atmosphere and entering the land.

The main idea being tested is the process by which water moves from the atmosphere down to the land in forms that fall from the sky. This is called precipitation. It covers rain, snow, sleet, and hail, all of which are ways moisture leaves the air and reaches the surface. Evaporation is the opposite, where water becomes vapor and rises. Condensation is when water vapor cooling forms clouds, not the actual falling to the ground. Surface runoff describes water that moves over the surface after precipitation, not the act of the moisture leaving the atmosphere and entering the land.