IGCSEGeographyEdexcelRevision Notes1. River Environments1.1 The Water Cycle & Drainage Basin System1.1.1 The Hydrological Cycle

The Hydrological Cycle (Edexcel IGCSE Geography)

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Characteristics of the Water Cycle

  • The hydrological cycle is a closed system 
  • Water is constantly recycled through the system
  • The hydrological cycle includes stores and transfers

The Hydrological Cycle

The hydrological cycle

Exam Tip

Remember there are no inputs and outputs in the hydrological system, only transfers and stores, because it is a closed system.

Stores of the Water Cycle

  • Stores are those places where water is held for a period of time. These include:
    • Water in the atmosphere in the form of water vapour or water droplets in clouds
    • Surface stores such as puddles, lakes, rivers and reservoirs
    • Interception is how precipitation is prevented from reaching the ground, usually by being caught on leaves or branches
    • Aquifers are permeable rocks such as limestone and sandstone which can hold water 
    • Ice and snow
    • Seas and oceans 

Transfers of Water Within the Cycle

  • Transfers are the ways in which water is moved around the hydrological cycle. They include:
    • Evaporation
    • Condensation
    • Transpiration 
    • Evapotranspiration
    • Precipitation
    • Overland flow
    • Infiltration
    • Percolation
    • Through flow 
    • Groundwater flow

Worked example

Identify the statement that best defines through flow  (1)

A Water moving through the soil
B Water taken up by plants from the soil and released into the atmosphere as water vapour
C Movement of water over the ground
D Movement of water through rocks 

 

  • Answer:
    •  A (1) -Through flow is the water moving through the soil below the surface and above the water table

Exam Tip

Try sketching the hydrological cycle from memory. Remember to add a key to show stores and transfers.

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    Bridgette

    Author: Bridgette

    After graduating with a degree in Geography, Bridgette completed a PGCE over 25 years ago. She later gained an MA Learning, Technology and Education from the University of Nottingham focussing on online learning. At a time when the study of geography has never been more important, Bridgette is passionate about creating content which supports students in achieving their potential in geography and builds their confidence.