What term refers to any form of water that falls from clouds and reaches Earth's surface?

The term that refers to any form of water that falls from clouds and reaches Earth’s surface is precipitation. This process includes various forms of water such as rain, snow, sleet, and hail. It plays a critical role in the water cycle, contributing to the replenishment of groundwater, rivers, lakes, and other water bodies.

Understanding precipitation is key in aquatic science because it directly affects water availability in ecosystems, influences weather patterns, and can have significant impacts on both the environment and human activities. The water that falls during precipitation can also contribute to surface runoff, which affects soil moisture levels and the health of aquatic habitats.