The water cycle is a process that re-circulates Earth's water through the stages of evaporation, condensation and collection. The water from lakes, oceans, rivers and other water bodies begins to evaporate; vapor from the water bodies condenses into clouds, later causing precipitation.

The Water Cycle in Nature

Introduction:
The water cycle, also known as the hydrological cycle, is a continuous process that describes the movement of water on, above, and below the Earth's surface. It involves the exchange of water between the atmosphere, land, and oceans. This natural cycle is essential for the Earth's ecosystems and plays a crucial role in maintaining the availability of freshwater resources.

Evaporation:
- Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid state to a gaseous state.
- The Sun's energy causes the water in oceans, lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water to heat up and evaporate.
- The water vapor rises into the atmosphere.

Condensation:
- As the water vapor rises higher into the atmosphere, it cools down and begins to condense.
- Condensation occurs when the water vapor turns back into liquid form, forming clouds.
- Clouds are made up of tiny water droplets or ice crystals.

Precipitation:
- Precipitation is the process by which water falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface.
- When the water droplets in clouds become too heavy, they fall as rain, snow, sleet, or hail.
- Precipitation replenishes the Earth's water sources, such as rivers, lakes, and groundwater.

Runoff and Infiltration:
- Once precipitation reaches the Earth's surface, it undergoes either runoff or infiltration.
- Runoff occurs when the water flows over the land surface, forming streams, rivers, and eventually reaching the oceans.
- Infiltration happens when the water seeps into the ground and becomes groundwater.
- Groundwater can either be stored in aquifers or eventually return to the surface through springs and seepages.

Transpiration:
- Transpiration is the process by which water is released into the atmosphere by plants.
- Plants absorb water from the ground through their roots and release it into the air through small openings in their leaves called stomata.
- This water vapor contributes to the overall moisture in the atmosphere.

Conclusion:
The water cycle is a continuous and essential process for the Earth's ecosystems. It ensures the availability of freshwater resources by constantly replenishing and redistributing water. Evaporation, condensation, precipitation, runoff, infiltration, and transpiration are the key processes involved in this cycle. Understanding the water cycle helps us appreciate the interconnectedness of water and the environment, and the importance of conserving and managing this valuable resource for future generations.

Continuous movement of water in three spheres of earth is called water cycle