The path water follows as it leaves Earth, rises into the air, and returns to Earth is called the water cycle.

Here's a breakdown of the different stages:

* Evaporation: Liquid water on Earth's surface turns into water vapor and rises into the atmosphere.

* Condensation: The water vapor cools and changes back into liquid water, forming clouds.

* Precipitation: Water falls back to Earth in the form of rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

* Collection: Water collects in rivers, lakes, oceans, and underground aquifers.

This cycle continuously repeats, driving weather patterns and sustaining life on Earth.