Water in the water cycle moves between the Earth's surface and the atmosphere in a continuous cycle. It begins as water evaporates from the surface of the ocean, rivers, lakes, and wetlands into the atmosphere. The water vapor in the atmosphere rises and is cooled, forming clouds. As the clouds move, they can release water vapor in the form of precipitation, such as rain, snow, and hail. This precipitation then falls back to the surface and collects in bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, and oceans. The water can also seep into the ground, where it replenishes groundwater sources. As the water in the bodies of water warms, it can evaporate again, and the cycle continues.