Water cycle

/ˈwɔtər ˈsaɪkəl/ noun

Definition

The continuous movement of water through Earth's atmosphere, land, and oceans via evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection. It is driven by solar energy and gravity.

Etymology

From Old English 'waeter' and Greek 'kyklos' (circle). The concept of water circulation was understood by ancient civilizations, but the modern scientific understanding developed during the Renaissance.

Kelly Says

The water cycle is powered entirely by the sun and contains the same water that dinosaurs drank! Every drop of water on Earth has been cycling through this system for billions of years, meaning the water in your body was once part of ancient oceans and clouds.

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