What is Desiccation? The Process of Moisture Evaporation

The Name for the Condition when Moisture Evaporates from the Material

Desiccation, or dehydration, is the process where moisture evaporates from a material, causing it to shrink, often used as a food preservation technique such as freeze-drying.

Explanation

The condition when moisture evaporates from a material causing it to shrink is commonly referred to as desiccation or dehydration. This process is a method used for preserving various materials, including food. For instance, foods can undergo freeze-drying, also known as lyophilization, which involves rapid freezing and placing the food under vacuum so that water is lost by sublimation. This method is especially effective for controlling microbial growth and preserving the original qualities of the material. The principle behind this is that decreased atmospheric pressure leads to decreased partial pressure of water and, consequently, a lower humidity, which enhances water evaporation.

Final answer:

Desiccation, or dehydration, is the process where moisture evaporates from a material, causing it to shrink, often used as a food preservation technique such as freeze-drying.