What is the water cycle and how does the conservation of matter apply to the water cycle?

The water cycle, also known as the hydrological cycle or H2O cycle, describes the continuous movement of water on, above and below the surface of the Earth.

The water cycle, or the hydro-logic cycle, is the continuous circulation of water within the Earth's hydrosphere. It involves the movement of water into and out of various reservoirs, including the atmosphere, land, surface water, and groundwater. This cycle is driven by radiation from the Sun. The movement of water within the water cycle is the subject of the field of hydrology. The water is a combination of processes that water goes through in nature. It can includes precipitation, infiltration, evaporation, transpiration, and condensation.