What process describes the evaporation of water from the leaves of a plant?

The process that describes the evaporation of water from the leaves of a plant is transpiration. During transpiration, plants absorb water from the soil through their roots, which then travels up through the stem and into the leaves. When water reaches the leaves, it evaporates into the atmosphere through small openings called stomata.

Transpiration plays a crucial role in the plant's ability to regulate water loss, maintain nutrient uptake, and create a vacuum effect that helps draw more water from the roots. This process is key to the water cycle, as it contributes to moisture in the air, which can eventually lead to precipitation.

In contrast, photosynthesis refers to the process by which plants convert carbon dioxide and sunlight into glucose and oxygen, primarily focusing on energy production rather than water movement. Respiration is the metabolic process where plants (and all living organisms) convert glucose and oxygen into energy, releasing carbon dioxide and water as byproducts. Condensation is the process where water vapor cools down and changes back into liquid, which is not directly related to water movement from plants.