Question

One of the following processes is not a step involved in the water-cycle operating in nature.
A) Evaporation
B) Transpiration
C) Precipitation
D) Photosynthesis

Answer 1

Water cycle is a natural process in which there is a continuous movement of water between Earth and the atmosphere. It is also called Hydrological cycle.

Complete answer:
In a water cycle, water first rises into the air from water surfaces on land by evaporation. The water cools down in the atmosphere and condenses to form clouds. This water returns to the Earth’s surface in the form of rain or snowfall. This process is called Precipitation. This water refills and recharges the water bodies on earth like lakes, rivers and oceans. Some of the water seeps into the ground thus maintaining the water table. The water from the surface again evaporates, therefore continuing the water cycle.

Option A: Evaporation is a surface phenomenon where water is changed from its liquid phase to the gas phase. It is involved in the water cycle. Hence, this is an incorrect option.
Option B: Transpiration is the evaporation or the loss of water in the form of water vapour from the plants. It mainly occurs through the stomata of a plant. Hence, this is an incorrect option.
Option C: Precipitation is the process of a water cycle in which water is released from the clouds in the form of rain, snow, hail, etc onto the surface of earth. Hence, this is an incorrect option.
Option D: Photosynthesis is the process in plants where sunlight, carbon dioxide and water are converted to organic compounds, starch, energy and oxygen. This is not involved in the water cycle and hence, it is the correct option.

Thus, the correct answer is Option (D) Photosynthesis.

Note:
i) Water cycle helps in recharging the groundwater.
ii) Water cycle is responsible for maintaining life and ecosystems.
iii) It is important for regulating the weather patterns on earth.