The Water Cycle
The Water Cycle is the continuous natural process by which water moves between Earth's oceans, atmosphere, and land, sustaining nearly all life on the planet.
Recycling the same finite amount of water across Earth's oceans, atmosphere, and land for billions of years, this continuous cycle sustains virtually every ecosystem and living organism on the planet.
Evaporation and Condensation
The water cycle begins as heat from the sun causes evaporation of water from oceans and other surfaces, with water vapor later condensing into clouds as it cools in the atmosphere.
Precipitation Returns Water to Earth
Condensed water eventually falls back to Earth's surface as precipitation, in forms including rain and snow, replenishing rivers, lakes, and groundwater supplies.
Supporting All Terrestrial Life
The water cycle sustains virtually all terrestrial ecosystems, providing the fresh water necessary for plant growth, agriculture, and drinking water for humans and animals worldwide.
Influenced by Climate Change
Climate change is significantly altering water cycle patterns globally, contributing to more extreme precipitation events, shifting drought patterns, and changing regional water availability.
