The water cycle (hydrological cycle) is the continuous movement of water on Earth, changing between different states: liquid, gas, and solid. It plays a crucial role in maintaining life by distributing fresh water.
Main Stages of the Water Cycle
Evaporation 🌞💨
The sun heats up water from oceans, rivers, lakes, and even soil.
This water changes into water vapor (gas) and rises into the atmosphere.
Transpiration 🌿💧
Plants take in water from the soil and release water vapor through their leaves.
This is like "plant sweat" and adds moisture to the air.
Condensation ☁️
As the water vapor rises, it cools down and turns into tiny water droplets.
These droplets group together to form clouds.
Precipitation 🌧️❄️
When the water droplets in clouds become heavy, they fall back to Earth as rain, snow, sleet, or hail.
Collection (Accumulation) 🌊
The water from precipitation collects in oceans, rivers, lakes, and underground reservoirs.
It then flows back to the ocean through rivers and streams, restarting the cycle.
Importance of the Water Cycle
It provides fresh water for drinking, farming, and industry.
It helps regulate Earth's temperature and weather patterns.
It supports all living organisms, from plants to animals.
Key words
Evaporation
Transpiration
Condensation
Precipitation
Collection (Accumulation)
Water Vapor
Cloud Formation
Runoff
Infiltration
Groundwater
Sun’s Heat
Atmosphere
Hydrological Cycle
Rainfall
Water Bodies
