The hydrologic water cycle, also known as the water cycle or hydrological cycle, refers to the continuous movement and circulation of water on Earth. It involves various processes through which water moves between different reservoirs, including the atmosphere, surface water bodies, groundwater, and wetlands. Here's a description of the hydrologic water cycle and its relation to surface water, groundwater, and wetlands:
1. Evaporation: The water cycle begins with the process of evaporation. Heat from the sun causes water from surface water bodies, such as oceans, lakes, and rivers, to convert into water vapor and rise into the atmosphere.
2. Condensation: As the water vapor rises and cools, it undergoes condensation and forms clouds. Condensation is the process of water vapor transforming back into liquid water droplets.
3. Precipitation: When condensation reaches a point where the air can no longer hold the moisture, it leads to precipitation. Precipitation includes various forms such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail, and it falls back to the Earth's surface.
4. Surface Runoff: When precipitation reaches the Earth's surface, it can either infiltrate into the ground or flow over the land as surface runoff. Surface runoff includes water flowing over the land surface and collecting in rivers, streams, lakes, and eventually reaching the oceans.
5. Infiltration: Some of the precipitation seeps into the ground through a process called infiltration. Infiltrated water becomes groundwater, which fills the spaces between rocks and soil particles below the Earth's surface.
6. Groundwater: Groundwater is the water stored beneath the Earth's surface within aquifers. It moves slowly through the permeable layers of soil and rock. Groundwater plays a crucial role in supplying water to wells, springs, and maintaining base flow in rivers and wetlands.
7. Recharge and Discharge: Groundwater interacts with surface water bodies, wetlands, and vegetation through recharge and discharge. Recharge occurs when water from precipitation or surface water infiltrates into the ground and replenishes the groundwater reservoir. Discharge happens when groundwater is released into surface water bodies, sustaining their flow and supporting wetlands.
8. Wetlands: Wetlands are areas where the water table is near the land surface, resulting in water-saturated soil conditions. Wetlands receive water inputs from precipitation, surface runoff, and groundwater discharge. They serve as important ecosystems, providing habitat for various species, acting as natural filters, and regulating water flow and quality.
The hydrologic water cycle demonstrates the interconnectedness of surface water, groundwater, and wetlands. Precipitation contributes to both surface water bodies and groundwater, while groundwater provides a vital source of water for wetlands and sustains surface water flows. These interrelations play a crucial role in maintaining water availability, supporting ecosystems, and influencing the overall water balance of Earth's environment.