Photodesorption is a process where molecules are released from a surface due to the absorption of photons. This phenomenon is also known as photoevaporation or photoemission. The term "photodesorption" is commonly used in the field of surface science and photon-induced chemistry, while "photoevaporation" is more frequently used in astrophysical research where it refers to the loss of gas from planetary atmospheres. On the other hand, "photoemission" is a term that is mostly used to describe the ejection of electrons from a surface due to the absorption of photons. These terms are often used interchangeably, depending on the context of the research.