What is the process of moving from the surface of a material to its interior called?

The process of moving from the surface of a material to its interior is called absorption. This term specifically refers to the incorporation of a substance (such as a liquid or gas) into the bulk of another material, where the absorbed substance penetrates the entire volume rather than merely adhering to the surface.

In the context of weed management, understanding absorption is critical when applying herbicides or fertilizers, as it influences how effectively these chemicals penetrate and act within the plant and soil systems. Effective absorption ensures that the active ingredients reach their target, leading to better weed control and nutrient delivery.

The other terms, while related to interactions between substances, describe different processes. Adsorption refers to the accumulation of molecules on the surface of a solid or liquid, but does not involve penetration into the material. Aeration involves introducing air into a material, which is important in contexts like soil health but is unrelated to moving substances into their interior. Agitation typically refers to stirring or shaking a mixture, which can affect the speed of absorption or adsorption but does not define the process itself. Understanding these distinctions is vital for effective weed and turf management practices.