The hydrologic cycle is the constant movement of water in the atmosphere which commences when water leaves the surface of the ocean through the process of evaporation. As it rises to the atmosphere, it cools rapidly forming the clouds. This moist air moves throughout the earth and finally returns to the ground via precipitation. When the water hits the surface of the earth, it may either go through evaporation again, or, sip through the ground forming groundwater, which may find its way to water bodies like lakes and oceans or, undergo transpiration. The remaining water on the earth goes back to rivers, and the process continues (King County, 2016). This cycle is essential to the environment as it produces fresh and clean water for plants, animals and also human beings. Without this natural recycling process, the planet would find itself in a problematic position characterized by the lack of clean water. Also, the cycle helps in the movement of sediments and minerals in and out of ecological systems.

References

King County. (2016). Hydrologic cycle as an ecological function – King County. Retrieved from https://www.kingcounty.gov/services/environment/water-and-land/shorelines/about/shoreline-ecology/hydrologic-cycle.aspx