How does the water cycle affect weather patterns and climate?

1 Answer
Aug 19, 2017

Water is a major vector in the transport of energy around the planet.

Explanation:

The “water cycle” is the movement of water through the ecosphere by several phase changes. Each of those involves a large amount of energy transfer between the atmosphere and water, as well as the ground in some cases.

The amount of water available in a region also affects the climate in terms of potential vegetative cover and temperatures. It is the energy contained in the water cycle that creates major storms like hurricanes and typhoons. The distribution of solar energy through the water cycle creates winds and weather patterns.