The water cycle, also known as the hydrological cycle, is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth. It involves processes such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff. Water evaporates from oceans, lakes, and other bodies of water, condenses in the atmosphere to form clouds, falls back to the Earth as precipitation, and then flows back into the oceans and other bodies of water through runoff.
The water cycle is crucial for maintaining life on Earth as it replenishes freshwater sources, sustains ecosystems, and supports agriculture. It helps regulate the Earth's temperature, influences weather patterns, and plays a key role in the distribution of nutrients and chemicals in the environment. Overall, the water cycle is essential for the functioning of the planet's ecosystems and the well-being of all living organisms.
