Answer: d. natural process that links all water resources together
Explanation: The hydrologic cycle, also known as the water cycle, is a continuous and natural process that involves the movement and exchange of water throughout the Earth's atmosphere, land, and oceans. It is a fundamental process that links all water resources together and plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of water on our planet.
Here's a brief explanation of the hydrologic cycle:
Evaporation: The process starts with the sun's energy causing water from oceans, lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water to evaporate and transform into water vapor in the atmosphere.
Condensation: The water vapor in the atmosphere cools and condenses to form clouds.
Precipitation: When the clouds become saturated, they release moisture in the form of rain, snow, sleet, or hail, which falls back to the Earth's surface.
Infiltration and Runoff: Precipitation that falls on land can follow two paths: it can either infiltrate into the soil, becoming groundwater, or it can flow over the surface as runoff, eventually making its way to rivers, lakes, and oceans.
Transpiration: Plants absorb water through their roots and release water vapor through their leaves in a process called transpiration. This adds more water vapor to the atmosphere.
Sublimation and Melting: Ice and snow can change directly into water vapor through sublimation, and vice versa, they can melt into liquid water when temperatures rise.
The hydrologic cycle is an essential process for sustaining life and maintaining ecosystems. It ensures a continuous supply of freshwater, regulates climate, and supports various ecological functions. This natural process connects water bodies across the globe, making it a cohesive system that links all water resources together.