What is the movement of moisture from areas of high water vapor pressure to low water vapor pressure called?

The movement of moisture from areas of high water vapor pressure to low water vapor pressure is referred to as diffusion. This process is characterized by the natural tendency of water vapor to move towards areas where there is less vapor pressure, effectively seeking to balance the concentration of moisture in the air. Diffusion plays a critical role in drying processes, especially in situations involving moisture-damaged materials, where understanding and facilitating the movement of water vapor can enhance the efficiency of structural drying.

In contrast, convection refers to the transfer of heat and moisture through the movement of air, while evaporation is the process by which water turns into vapor. Equilibrium, on the other hand, describes the state where the amount of water vapor in the air is balanced, and there is no net movement occurring. Recognizing these distinct concepts is important for understanding how moisture behaves in different environments and the principles applied in structural drying practices.