The transformation of water from a liquid to a vapour state occurs through the interconnected processes of evaporation and evapotranspiration. They involve different mechanisms and occur in slightly distinct circumstances.
Below is a detailed breakdown of every procedure.
Evaporation
Evaporation is the process by which water is transformed from a liquid to a gaseous state, primarily at the surface of open water bodies, such as oceans, lakes, rivers, and even puddles.
It occurs due to the absorption of heat energy from the surroundings, by the sun, which causes the water molecules to gain adequate kinetic energy to break their bonds and transition into water vapour.
Evaporation involves the loss of water directly from the water source.
Evapotranspiration
Evapotranspiration is the combined process of water evaporation from the Earth’s surface, as well as the release of water vapour from plants through transpiration. It accounts for water loss in both the soil and vegetation in an area. Transpiration is the release of water vapour by plants as a part of their physiological processes.
Evapotranspiration refers to the evaporation of water from surfaces (like the soil, lakes, and vegetation) and the transpiration of water vapour from the stomata of plant leaves. It can occur from a variety of surfaces, and encompasses both natural landscapes and agricultural fields.
Conclusion
Evaporation refers to the phase change from liquid to vapour at the surface of open water bodies, while evapotranspiration is a more comprehensive term that refers to both the evaporation of water from various surfaces and the transpiration of water vapour from plants.
Evapotranspiration is incredibly significant in hydrology and ecology as it plays a crucial role in the water and energy cycles of the Earth, influencing local and regional climates and ecosystem health.
Researched by Aduloju Oluwatoyosi Afolabi
