Beginner · 2 min
Following the water cycle
Water evaporates from surfaces and also enters the air through plants. Water vapor can condense into droplets, and precipitation returns water to the surface. Water may run into rivers, enter the ground, freeze, or remain stored. There is no single starting point.
Visual explanation
Water moving through a cycle
- Evaporation: liquid water becomes vapor
- Condensation: droplets form
- Precipitation: water returns to the surface
- Collection, storage, and movement of water
Water can take many routes and remain stored for different lengths of time. This diagram shows one simplified route.
Simplified diagram. Read the explanation for the conditions and limits.