Which process describes the continuous movement of water in the environment?

The water cycle is the process that describes the continuous movement of water in the environment. It encompasses various stages, primarily evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff. Water evaporates from the surface of bodies like oceans and lakes, transforming into water vapor and entering the atmosphere. This vapor then cools and condenses, forming clouds. When the clouds become heavy, they release water back to the surface in the form of precipitation, such as rain or snow. The water that reaches the ground can either infiltrate the soil and recharge groundwater supplies or flow over the surface, eventually returning to rivers and lakes, thus completing the cycle.

Other cycles mentioned do not specifically relate to the movement of water. The carbon cycle focuses on the movement of carbon atoms through various storage reservoirs in the environment, including the atmosphere, biosphere, geosphere, and hydrosphere. The geological cycle refers to processes that change the Earth's surface over geological time, such as erosion, sedimentation, and tectonic activities. The nitrogen cycle describes how nitrogen is converted between its various chemical forms, essential for life but unrelated to the movement of water. Thus, the water cycle is the accurate choice as it specifically captures the ongoing movement and transformation of water in the Earth’s system.