Natural water on Earth is primarily obtained through the process of precipitation, which is then collected and distributed via natural land and rock formations.
The journey of natural water involves several key stages:
The Water Cycle's Earthly Processes
The water we find in rivers, lakes, and underground sources originates from the atmosphere and moves through different parts of the environment.
1. Precipitation: The Source
- Precipitation is when water droplets fall from the sky as rain, snow, or hail. This is the initial way water reaches the Earth's surface from the atmosphere, constantly replenishing our natural supply.
2. Surface Movement and Collection
- Once water lands on the ground, some of it becomes run-off. This is when water flows over the ground and into creeks, rivers and oceans. This surface flow is how many visible bodies of natural water like streams and lakes are formed and maintained.
3. Ground Absorption and Storage
- Alternatively, water can soak into the ground. Infiltration is when water falls on the ground and soaks into the soil.
- As water moves deeper, percolation occurs. This is when water seeps deeper into tiny spaces in the soil and rock. These processes are crucial for refilling underground water sources, known as aquifers, which are accessed through wells.
Understanding the Processes
Here's a simple breakdown of the terms based on how water interacts with the land:
| Process | Description | How it Contributes to Natural Water Sources |
|---|---|---|
| Precipitation | Water falling from the sky (rain, snow, hail). | The primary input of fresh water to the Earth's surface. |
| Run-off | Water flowing over the ground into bodies of water. | Creates and feeds surface water sources like rivers, streams, and lakes. |
| Infiltration | Water soaking into the soil. | Begins the process of recharging soil moisture and groundwater. |
| Percolation | Water seeping deeper into soil and rock spaces. | Replenishes deeper groundwater reserves (aquifers). |
Essentially, we get natural water through this continuous cycle starting with precipitation, which then travels across the surface as run-off or seeps into the ground via infiltration and percolation, accumulating in various natural reservoirs.
