Water moving downward into the soil is called:

The correct answer is Percolation. Percolation is the process by which water moves downward through the soil and rock layers, eventually reaching the groundwater table. It is a critical part of the water cycle. Among the options:

• Evaporation: Water moving upward as vapor from the surface to the atmosphere.
• Transpiration: Water released from plants into the atmosphere.
• Percolation: Correct; it is the downward movement of water into the soil.
• Condensation: Water vapor turning into liquid water in the atmosphere.

Therefore, the correct answer is "Percolation".