How does the water cycle regulate the distribution of water on Earth's surface through processes such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, runoff, infiltration, and groundwater recharge, sustaining ecosystems, agriculture, and human societies?

The water cycle, also known as the hydrological cycle, describes the continuous movement of water between the atmosphere, land, and oceans. Solar energy drives evaporation from oceans, lakes, and rivers, converting liquid water into water vapor. Condensation occurs as water vapor cools and forms clouds, leading to precipitation in the form of rain, snow, sleet, or hail. Precipitation replenishes surface water sources and infiltrates into the ground, recharging groundwater aquifers. Runoff transports water over the land surface into rivers, lakes, and oceans, completing the cycle.