Which process describes the combination of evaporation and plant transpiration?

The process that describes the combination of evaporation and plant transpiration is called evapotranspiration. Evaporation refers to the process where water changes from liquid to vapor and enters the atmosphere, while transpiration is the process where water is absorbed by plant roots, moves through the plants, and is released as vapor into the atmosphere through small openings in leaves called stomata.

When considering both processes together, evapotranspiration provides a comprehensive understanding of how water moves from the soil and vegetation into the atmosphere, significantly influencing the water cycle, climate, and ecosystem dynamics. This term encapsulates the total movement of water from the land surface to the atmosphere due to these combined activities, making it essential for understanding water balance and environmental processes.