What is the process called when water soaks into the soil after precipitation?

The process of water soaking into the soil after precipitation is known as infiltration. Infiltration occurs when rainwater or melted snow lands on the ground and enters the soil layer. This is an essential part of the hydrological cycle, as it allows water to replenish groundwater supplies and maintain plant hydration. Infiltration rates can vary based on the type of soil, the presence of vegetation, and the saturation level of the soil prior to precipitation.

Transpiration, on the other hand, refers to the release of water vapor from plants into the atmosphere, while condensation is the process where water vapor cools and changes back into liquid water, forming clouds. Evaporation involves the transformation of liquid water into water vapor as it heats up. Each of these processes plays a role in the overall movement of water within the environment but specifically, infiltration is the key process that describes the absorption of water by the soil following precipitation.