What term describes the process whereby plants lose water through their leaves?

The process whereby plants lose water through their leaves is called transpiration. This phenomenon involves the movement of water within a plant and the subsequent evaporation of water vapor from various parts of the plant, primarily the stomata in the leaves. Transpiration plays a crucial role in maintaining a plant's health and regulating temperature, as well as aiding in the uptake of nutrients from the soil through the roots.

In this context, the other terms refer to different processes: evaporation is a broader term that describes the process by which water changes from a liquid to a vapor; condensation refers to the process of water vapor turning back into liquid form; and absorption pertains to the uptake of water and nutrients by plant roots. Understanding that transpiration specifically addresses the loss of water through leaves is essential for recognizing its importance in plant biology and ecology.