Hydrologic Cycle

Definition

The hydrologic cycle, also known as the water cycle, refers to the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the Earth's surface. It involves processes such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.

Related terms

Evaporation:

The process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas (water vapor) due to heat energy.

Condensation:

The process by which water vapor cools down and changes back into liquid form.

Precipitation:

Any form of moisture that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface, such as rain, snow, sleet or hail.