Learn on PengiAmplify Science (California) Grade 5Chapter 2: Why does more rain form over West Ferris than East Ferris?

Session 3: Energy from the Sun

Key Idea.

Section 1

The Engine of the Water Cycle

Key Idea

What drives the water cycle? It’s the Sun. Solar energy warms the Earth's oceans and lakes.

This heat energy is the "fuel" for evaporation. It gives water molecules the energy they need to break free and turn into gas. Without the Sun, water would stay frozen or liquid, and there would be no water vapor in the atmosphere.

Section 2

Conservation of Matter

Key Idea

It is important to remember: when water evaporates, it is not destroyed. The total amount of water stays the same.

This is the law of conservation of matter. The water molecules simply change their "address" from the ocean to the atmosphere, and their "state" from liquid to gas. Nothing is lost.

Lesson overview

Expand to review the lesson summary and core properties.

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Section 1

The Engine of the Water Cycle

Key Idea

What drives the water cycle? It’s the Sun. Solar energy warms the Earth's oceans and lakes.

This heat energy is the "fuel" for evaporation. It gives water molecules the energy they need to break free and turn into gas. Without the Sun, water would stay frozen or liquid, and there would be no water vapor in the atmosphere.

Section 2

Conservation of Matter

Key Idea

It is important to remember: when water evaporates, it is not destroyed. The total amount of water stays the same.

This is the law of conservation of matter. The water molecules simply change their "address" from the ocean to the atmosphere, and their "state" from liquid to gas. Nothing is lost.