Vesikierrosten

Vesikierrosten, also known as the water cycle or hydrologic cycle, describes the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth. This vital process is driven by solar energy and gravity.

The cycle begins with evaporation, where water from oceans, lakes, rivers, and even soil transforms into water vapor and rises into the atmosphere. Transpiration, the release of water vapor from plants, also contributes to atmospheric moisture. As this water vapor ascends and cools, it condenses into tiny water droplets or ice crystals, forming clouds.

When these clouds become saturated, precipitation occurs. Water falls back to Earth in various forms, including rain, snow, sleet, or hail. Upon reaching the surface, this water can follow several paths. It may infiltrate the ground, becoming groundwater, or flow over the land as surface runoff, eventually returning to bodies of water. Some water is stored in glaciers and ice caps.

The water cycle is a closed system, meaning the total amount of water on Earth remains relatively constant. However, the distribution and form of water are constantly changing. This cycle is fundamental to weather patterns, climate, and the availability of fresh water for all living organisms.