As temperatures rise, which processes in the hydrologic cycle occur at an increased rate?

Evaporation
Snowmelt/Runoff
Precipitation
Transpiration
Condensation

1 answer

As temperatures rise, the following processes in the hydrologic cycle occur at an increased rate:

  1. Evaporation: Higher temperatures increase the rate of evaporation from bodies of water, soil, and other surfaces.

  2. Snowmelt/Runoff: Warmer temperatures can lead to earlier snowmelt, resulting in increased runoff as snow transitions to liquid water more quickly.

  3. Transpiration: Higher temperatures can enhance plant metabolic activity, leading to increased transpiration, which is the process by which plants release water vapor into the atmosphere through their leaves.

While precipitation and condensation are influenced by temperature, they do not necessarily increase in direct relation to temperature rises. Instead, they may vary based on other atmospheric conditions and humidity levels.

In summary, evaporation, snowmelt/runoff, and transpiration are the processes that typically increase with rising temperatures.