Question

1 multiple choice 1 point how does solar energy help drive the water cycle? it causes water to precipitate it causes water to condense and form clouds it causes to water to evaporate it causes water to run downhill and collect in reservoirs

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option based on the water cycle and solar energy's role:

• Precipitation (like rain, snow) is the result of condensed water droplets falling, not directly caused by solar energy. So the first option is incorrect.
• Condensation (forming clouds) is when water vapor cools, not a direct effect of solar energy. The second option is wrong.
• Solar energy provides heat, which causes liquid water (in oceans, lakes, etc.) to turn into water vapor (evaporation). This is a key part of the water cycle driven by solar energy. The third option (with a typo, likely "It causes water to evaporate") is correct.
• Water running downhill (runoff) is due to gravity, not solar energy. The fourth option is incorrect.

Answer:

C. It causes water to evaporate (Note: The original option has a typo, but the intended correct option is the one about evaporation as solar energy drives evaporation in the water cycle.)