This chapter completes the study of atmospheric moisture.  Since details about saturation and condensation are known, we move onto clouds and their classification.  Clouds are a pre-requisite for precipitation, and precipitation is examined in detail.  Precipitation can be divided into two processes.  Warm cloud processes above freezing, and cold cloud processes where a portion of the cloud is below freezing.  We will finally learn how rain happens.  Hurray!!

After the precipitation topic, the hydrologic cycle is briefly reviewed along with groundwater and surface water.  This chapter finishes with information on streamflow and floods.  After completing it, the basics on how the atmosphere works have been covered.  Chapters 6 through 10 look at weather patterns and storm systems, or what most people traditionally think of as weather.

Once a learner has completed this module, they will be able to:

1. State how clouds are classified.

2. Describe the processes involved in the growth of cloud droplets.

3. Describe the relationship between drainage basin and rivers.

4. Explain the relationship between river stage, rating table, discharge, and a hydrograph.

5. Define the recurrence interval and how to calculate it.