What is the process called when some rainfall strikes plant leaves and branches?

The process when rainfall strikes plant leaves and branches is called interception. This occurs when precipitation falls onto vegetation rather than reaching the ground directly. Interception can affect how much water enters the soil, as the water captured by leaves may eventually evaporate back into the atmosphere or drip onto the ground. This is important for understanding the water cycle's dynamics, especially in forested areas, as it influences both soil moisture levels and the amount of water available for plants.

Surface runoff refers to water that flows over the ground after rainfall, not water that is intercepted by leaves. Infiltration is the process by which water soaks into the soil from the surface, while percolation is the movement of water through the soil layers. Both infiltration and percolation occur after water has reached the ground, highlighting the significance of interception in managing water before it ever touches the soil.