The water cycle describes how water moves through Earth’s systems.

It starts with evaporation, where water turns into vapor.

Water vapor rises and cools to form clouds—this is condensation.

Precipitation happens when water falls as rain, snow, or hail.

Some water soaks into the ground—called infiltration.

Water that runs over land into rivers and oceans is runoff.

Plants also release water vapor through transpiration.

The sun powers the entire water cycle.

The cycle keeps Earth's water in constant motion.

It’s vital for weather, agriculture, and all life on Earth.