In what direction does water naturally move?

Water naturally moves downhill toward the lowest point due to the force of gravity. This fundamental principle of hydrology dictates that water will flow from areas of higher elevation to areas of lower elevation, which can be observed in rivers, streams, and other water bodies. The movement is influenced by the landscape's topography and can be shaped further by natural factors such as soil composition, vegetation, and human activities.

This downward movement is essential in understanding processes such as drainage, erosion, and the water cycle, where precipitation can accumulate and flow along gradients until it reaches lower elevations, leading to the formation of various landforms and influencing ecosystems.