Which process is defined as water soaking into or being absorbed by the soil?

The correct answer is defined as infiltration, which refers to the process by which water penetrates the soil surface and becomes part of the soil moisture. This is a crucial step in the hydrological cycle, as it allows for groundwater recharge and helps sustain vegetation by providing moisture in the root zone.

Infiltration is influenced by various factors including soil type, structure, and moisture content, as well as the intensity and duration of rainfall. When water falls on the ground, some of it flows over the surface as runoff, while the rest penetrates the ground—this process is what is specifically termed infiltration.

Understanding infiltration is essential in geography and environmental science, as it plays a key role in soil health, agricultural practices, and water management.