Hydropathy index
Hydrological Cycle
The Hydrological Cycle, also known as the Water Cycle, is a continuous process by which water circulates from the Earth's surface to the atmosphere and back. This cycle involves the exchange of energy, which leads to temperature changes. The hydrological cycle is crucial for the maintenance of most life and ecosystems on the planet.
Overview[edit | edit source]
The hydrological cycle begins with the evaporation of water from the surface of the Earth. Once evaporated, the water vapor ascends into the atmosphere where it cools and condenses to form clouds. This water is then returned to the Earth's surface in the form of precipitation, such as rain or snow. Once the water reaches the Earth's surface, it may evaporate again, be taken up by plants and transpired, or flow into rivers and eventually into the ocean. This cycle is then repeated.
Stages of the Hydrological Cycle[edit | edit source]
Evaporation[edit | edit source]
Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas or vapor. This is the primary pathway that water moves from the liquid state back into the water cycle as atmospheric water vapor.
Transpiration[edit | edit source]
Transpiration is the process by which moisture is carried through plants from roots to small pores on the underside of leaves, where it changes to vapor and is released to the atmosphere.
Condensation[edit | edit source]
Condensation is the process by which water vapor in the air is changed into liquid water. Condensation is crucial to the water cycle because it is responsible for the formation of clouds.
Precipitation[edit | edit source]
Precipitation is water released from clouds in the form of rain, freezing rain, sleet, snow, or hail. It is the primary connection in the water cycle that provides for the delivery of atmospheric water to the Earth.
Runoff[edit | edit source]
Runoff is the movement of water on the Earth's surface. It can flow into rivers, lakes, and eventually the ocean, where the cycle begins again.
Importance of the Hydrological Cycle[edit | edit source]
The hydrological cycle is essential for the existence of life on Earth. It distributes heat around the globe, and is also responsible for the distribution of precipitation. This cycle is also a significant part of the general circulation of the Earth's atmosphere.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
