The movement of water through the land, oceans, and atmosphere of Earth is known as the water cycle. Evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection  are its four main phases. Firstly, rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water get heated by the sun and turn into vapor. 

As the vapor ascends into the atmosphere, it cools down and condenses to create clouds. Rain, snow, or sleet are examples of precipitation that is released back to the earth by clouds that have become overly moist. After then, the cycle is restarted when the water gathers in rivers, lakes, and oceans. 

This natural mechanism is essential to the survival of life on Earth because it distributes freshwater, controls temperature, and sustains ecosystems all over the planet. Knowing the water cycle is also beneficial in water conservation efforts.