The hydrologic cycle

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What is the hydrologic cycle?

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The hydrologic cycle, also known as the water 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 infiltration.

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What is condensation?

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Condensation is the process by which water vapor in the atmosphere cools and changes into liquid water droplets or ice crystals, leading to cloud formation.

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What is evaporation?

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Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas or vapor, primarily occurring from bodies of water, soil, and plants.

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What is groundwater?

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Groundwater is the supply of freshwater located beneath the Earth's surface, stored in aquifers and soil.

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What is surface runoff?

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Surface runoff is the flow of water that occurs when excess water from rain, melting snow, or other sources flows over the land and enters rivers, streams, lakes, and oceans.

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What is infiltration?

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Infiltration is the process by which water on the ground surface enters the soil, allowing it to be absorbed and stored.

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What is transpiration?

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Transpiration is the process by which water is absorbed by plants from the soil and then released as water vapor into the atmosphere through small openings in leaves.

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What is precipitation?

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Precipitation is any form of water, liquid or solid, that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.

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What is percolation?

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Percolation is the process by which water moves downward through the soil and rock layers, filtering and replenishing groundwater supplies.

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What is a watershed?

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A watershed is an area of land that drains all the streams and rainfall to a common outlet, such as a river, lake, or ocean.