Physical states of water in the hydrologic cycle In nature, water may occur as which of the following states?

Introduction / Context:
The hydrologic cycle continuously transforms water among phases in the atmosphere, on land, and in the oceans. Recognizing the three physical states helps explain processes like precipitation, runoff, and evapotranspiration.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Standard atmospheric and terrestrial conditions.
• Phase changes governed by temperature and pressure variations.

Concept / Approach:
Water exists naturally as liquid (rivers, lakes), solid (glaciers, snowpack), and vapour (atmospheric humidity). Phase transitions—melting, freezing, evaporation, condensation, sublimation—drive energy and mass exchanges.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Observational hydrology and meteorology document all three states in daily measurements (streamflow, snowfall, humidity).

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Options a–c list individual states; the comprehensive correct choice is “All of the above”.

Common Pitfalls:
Equating “vapour” with “cloud droplets”; clouds are liquid micro-drops or ice crystals suspended in air, while water vapour is invisible gas.

Final Answer:
All of the above