How is the water cycle best described?

The water cycle is best described as the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth. This encompasses the various processes through which water travels, including precipitation, evaporation, condensation, and infiltration. In this cycle, water exists in three states: liquid, solid (ice), and gas (water vapor), allowing it to move through different parts of the environment.

This definition highlights the dynamic nature of the water cycle and emphasizes its ongoing aspects, such as how water evaporates from the Earth's surface, condenses in the atmosphere to form clouds, and ultimately returns as precipitation to the surface, replenishing bodies of water and groundwater. Understanding the cyclical and interconnected processes of water helps illustrate the importance of water conservation and management in different ecosystems.