Question

A river flows from approximately 45° north latitude toward the equator, as shown in the diagram below. As the water molecules in the river approach the equator, which step in the water cycle is most likely to happen next?

The molecules cool and eventually form clouds.

The molecules freeze and eventually form ice crystals.

The molecules heat up and eventually form water vapor.

The molecules break apart and eventually form precipitation.

Answer 1

Answer: The molecules heat up and eventually form water vapor.

Explanation:

As the water moves toward equator, being more warmer zone, the molecules heat up and form water vapor. The water vapors rise up and cool and condense. The condensed water vapors clump together to form clouds and when these clouds become heavy, precipitation occurs and water falls back to oceans and rivers.

Answer 2

A river flows from approximately 45° north latitude toward the equator, as shown in the diagram below. As the water molecules in the river approach the equator the next to be happen is the molecules heat up and eventually form water vapor.