How is water cycled through an ecosystem?

Water is cycled through an ecosystem via the process known as the water cycle, involving evaporation, condensation, precipitation and transpiration.

The water cycle, also known as the hydrological cycle, is a continuous process that moves water around the Earth's surface, atmosphere, and underground. It begins with evaporation, where water from oceans, lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water turns into water vapour due to the heat from the sun. Plants also contribute to this process through transpiration, where water is released from their leaves into the atmosphere.

The water vapour then rises into the atmosphere, cools down and condenses to form clouds. This is the condensation stage. When the water droplets in the clouds become too heavy, they fall back to the Earth's surface as precipitation, such as rain, snow, or hail. This water can then be taken up by plants, flow into rivers and seas, or seep into the ground, replenishing the Earth's water sources.

In addition to these stages, there is also a process called infiltration, where water on the Earth's surface seeps into the ground and becomes part of the underground water system. This water can be stored in the ground for long periods, sometimes for thousands of years, before it is released back into the oceans or used by plants.

The water cycle is a crucial part of life on Earth. It ensures that water is continually recycled and made available for all living organisms. It also plays a significant role in the Earth's climate, as it helps to distribute heat around the planet. Understanding the water cycle is essential for understanding how ecosystems function and how they are affected by human activities, such as deforestation and climate change.