5. In a process called evaporation water changes from a liquid to a gas/vapor. This excess water is then released into the almosphere as part of the water cycle. Plants get rid of excess water through pores in the leaves called stomata. Which of the following terms best describes how plants release water into the atmosphere? A. Condensation C. Precipitation B. Transpiration D. Capillary action

## Step 1<br />The problem is asking us to identify the term that best describes the process by which plants release water into the atmosphere. The options provided are Condensation, Precipitation, Transpiration, and Capillary action.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />Let's analyze each option:<br />- Condensation is the process where water vapor in the air cools down and changes back into liquid form. This is not the process by which plants release water into the atmosphere.<br />- Precipitation refers to any form of water, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail, that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface. This is not the process by which plants release water into the atmosphere.<br />- Transpiration is the process by which water is carried through plants from roots to small openings on the leaves where it changes to vapor and is released into the atmosphere. This is the process by which plants release water into the atmosphere.<br />- Capillary action is the ability of a liquid to flow in narrow spaces without the assistance of, or even in opposition to, external forces like gravity. This is not the process by which plants release water into the atmosphere.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />Based on the above analysis, the term that best describes how plants release water into the atmosphere is Transpiration.