The scientific term for the phenomenon of water moving through soil is capillarity. This occurs when water molecules adhere to soil particles and also attract other water molecules due to their cohesive properties. The combination of adhesion and cohesion enables water to rise through small soil pores, facilitating the movement of moisture and nutrients to plant roots. Understanding capillarity is essential in fields like agriculture and environmental science, as it influences irrigation practices and the overall health of ecosystems by maintaining soil moisture levels.