What do we call the process by which plants lose water vapor?

Transpiration is the specific process by which plants release water vapor into the atmosphere, primarily through tiny openings in their leaves called stomata. This process is crucial for plant health as it helps to regulate temperature, maintain water movement within the plant, and facilitates nutrient uptake from the soil. Transpiration is a vital part of the water cycle and contributes to the overall moisture in the environment.

In contrast, evaporation refers to the process of water changing from a liquid to a vapor, typically from bodies of water or soil, but does not specifically involve plants. Condensation involves the transition of water vapor back into liquid form, often forming clouds or dew, while precipitation refers to water falling from the atmosphere in various forms, such as rain or snow. Thus, transpiration specifically highlights the water loss in plants and is distinct from these other processes.