What is the term for the movement of water into and through the ground?

The term that describes the movement of water into and through the ground is percolation. This process involves water moving downward through the soil layers and into the underlying geological formations, which may include various types of soil and rock. Percolation is crucial for groundwater recharge, as it helps to filter and purify water as it passes through the soil matrix.

Understanding percolation is essential in the context of water management and environmental science, as it directly affects the availability and quality of groundwater. This process is influenced by various factors such as soil texture, structure, and moisture content, which can either facilitate or hinder the movement of water.

In contrast, infiltration refers to the initial entry of water into the soil surface, while transpiration and evapotranspiration relate to the loss of water from plants and soil into the atmosphere. These concepts are related to the broader hydrological cycle, which is essential for managing water resources effectively.