Water Cycle (Detailed)

Evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and groundwater flow

The water cycle (hydrological cycle) moves water between atmosphere, land, and oceans. Solar energy drives evaporation from water surfaces and transpiration from plants (evapotranspiration). Water vapor rises, cools adiabatically, and condenses into clouds when reaching the dew point. Precipitation occurs when droplets grow large enough to fall. On land, water follows multiple paths: surface runoff into streams and rivers, infiltration into soil, and percolation into groundwater aquifers. Groundwater slowly flows toward discharge points (springs, rivers, oceans). Temperature increases evaporation rates; mountains force orographic lift causing precipitation on windward slopes.