The Water Cycle

    The Water Cycle   INTRODUCTION       The water cycle , also known as the hydrological cycle , is a continuous natural process by which water circulates between the Earth’s surface, atmosphere, and underground reservoirs . It plays a vital role in maintaining life on Earth by ensuring a constant supply of fresh water for plants, animals, and humans. Water on Earth exists in three states —solid (ice), liquid (water), and gas (water vapour). Through the water cycle, water continuously changes from one state to another and moves from one place to another without being created or destroyed. This process is driven mainly by solar energy (heat from the Sun) and gravity . The cycle begins when the Sun heats water present in oceans, seas, rivers, lakes, and ponds , causing it to evaporate into water vapour. Plants also release water vapour into the atmosphere through transpiration . As the warm, moist air rises, it cools at higher altitudes, leading to c...