Which process increases the availability of water to plants and ecosystems in the hydrological cycle?

Precipitation is a crucial process in the hydrological cycle that directly increases the availability of water to plants and ecosystems. This process involves the falling of water from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface in various forms, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail. When precipitation occurs, it replenishes soil moisture, fills up rivers and lakes, and contributes to groundwater supplies. This influx of water is vital for sustaining vegetation and ecosystems, as it provides the necessary moisture for plant growth, supports animal habitats, and maintains overall ecosystem health.

In contrast, while evaporation is essential for moving water into the atmosphere, it reduces water availability at the surface level. Infiltration is the process of water soaking into the soil, which does help retain moisture but does not introduce new water to the ecosystem. Condensation is the formation of water droplets from vapor, which is a part of the atmosphere's cycle but does not directly increase surface water availability. Thus, precipitation stands out as the key process that adds water to the land, ensuring that ecosystems can thrive with adequate hydration.