Summarize the hydrologic cycle.
http://ww2010.atmos.uiuc.edu/(Gh)/guides/mtr/hyd/smry.rxml
Thats easy just look up the water cycle. Theres heaps about it on the net.
The hydrologic cycle, also known as the water cycle, describes the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the Earth's surface. Here's a summary of the hydrologic cycle:
1. Evaporation: The process of water turning from a liquid into a gas, usually caused by the heat from the sun. It occurs in bodies of water like oceans, lakes, and rivers, as well as from the soil and plants.
2. Condensation: The water vapor in the atmosphere cools and transforms back into its liquid state, leading to the formation of clouds. This occurs when warm air rises and cools at higher altitudes.
3. Precipitation: This is when condensed water in the form of droplets or ice crystals falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface. Precipitation includes rain, snow, hail, and sleet.
4. Infiltration: When precipitation reaches the Earth's surface, it can either be absorbed into the ground, replenishing underground water sources, or become surface runoff.
5. Runoff: This is the movement of water downslope, flowing into streams, rivers, and eventually into larger bodies of water such as lakes and oceans. Runoff also occurs when the soil is saturated or cannot absorb all the precipitation.
6. Transpiration: Plants absorb water from the soil through their roots and release it as vapor back into the atmosphere through their leaves—a process known as transpiration.
7. Percolation: The downward movement of water through the soil and rock layers, eventually reaching the groundwater reservoirs or aquifers.
8. Groundwater flow: Once water reaches the underground aquifers, it may continue to flow over long periods, impacting the water supply for wells, springs, and maintaining the flow in rivers.
9. Sublimation: In icy regions, water can change directly from its solid state (ice) to a gas (vapor) without becoming liquid. This process is known as sublimation.
The hydrologic cycle is a natural and essential process that ensures the continuous circulation and availability of water on Earth.