Where does the energy that powers the water cycle primarily come from?

• A. The Sun
• B. Wind currents
• C. The Moon
• D. Geothermal heat from Earth's core

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the water cycle: The water cycle involves processes such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff. Energy is required to drive these processes.
2. Identify the primary process requiring energy: Evaporation is a key step in the water cycle where water changes from liquid to vapor. This process requires heat energy.
3. Determine the source of heat energy: The Sun is the primary source of heat energy for Earth, providing the energy needed for evaporation and other processes in the water cycle.
4. Eliminate other options: Wind currents are a result of atmospheric movements and do not directly provide energy for the water cycle. The Moon influences tides but does not power the water cycle. Geothermal heat from Earth's core is localized and insufficient to drive the global water cycle.
5. Conclude that the Sun is the primary energy source for the water cycle, as it provides the heat necessary for evaporation and other processes.