Evapotranspiration
Evapotranspiration is the combined process of evaporation from soil and water surfaces plus transpiration from plant leaves, through which water returns from the land surface to the atmosphere. It represents the main output from drainage basins in the water budget equation.
Real World
The Amazon rainforest recycles roughly half its own rainfall through evapotranspiration, creating 'flying rivers' of atmospheric moisture that drive rainfall across South America.
Exam Focus
Always use the term 'potential evapotranspiration' versus 'actual evapotranspiration' when discussing water budgets — examiners reward precise terminology.
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