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The water cycle takes place on, above, and below Earth’s surface. In the cycle, water occurs as water vapor, liquid water, and ice. Many processes are involved as water changes state in the cycle. The atmosphere is an exchange pool for water. Ice masses, aquifers, and the deep ocean are water reservoirs.
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Aug 10, 2024 · The water cycle or hydrologic cycle is a continuous biogeochemical process by which water circulates through the Earth’s atmosphere, surface, and underground environments. This cycle is essential for maintaining life on Earth, regulating climate, and shaping the planet’s ecosystems. Water moves through various states—liquid, solid, and ...
The water cycle (hydrologic cycle) is composed of the interconnections between water reservoirs in the environment and living organisms and the physical processes (e.g., evaporation and condensation) involved in its transport between those reservoirs. The oceans contain about 97 percent of the total water on the planet, which leaves about three percent as fresh water.
The flow of liquid water and ice transports minerals across the globe. It is also involved in reshaping the geological features of the earth through processes including erosion and sedimentation. The various processes that occur during the cycling of water are illustrated in Figure 20.2.4 20.2. 4.
- Evaporation. Evaporation is the change of state in a substance from a liquid to a gas. In meteorology, the substance we are concerned about the most is water.
- Transpiration. Transpiration is the evaporation of water from plants through stomata. Stomata are small openings found on the underside of leaves that are connected to vascular plant tissues.
- Condensation. Condensation is the process whereby water vapor is changed into a liquid state. In the atmosphere, condensation may appear as clouds or dew.
- Precipitation. Precipitation results when tiny condensation particles, through collision and coalescence, grow too large for the rising air to support, and thus fall to the Earth.
Learn about the water cycle, including processes like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.
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The water cycle also plays an important role in weather. When liquid water evaporates, it causes humidity. When water vapor condenses, it forms clouds and precipitation occurs. If the water cycle stopped, then, air will be dry, there will be no water in lakes, rivers leading to the loss of vegetation which ultimately causes the death of organisms.