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What is meant by the term transpiration? State two environmental factors that affect the rate of transpiration - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 13(d) - 2019
Question 13(d)
What is meant by the term transpiration? State two environmental factors that affect the rate of transpiration. Why is transpiration important in plants? Describe... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:What is meant by the term transpiration? State two environmental factors that affect the rate of transpiration - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 13(d) - 2019
Step 1
What is meant by the term transpiration?
Answer
Transpiration is the process by which plants lose water vapor through small openings called stomata, primarily located on the leaves. This process is crucial for maintaining water balance within the plant and facilitating the uptake of nutrients from the soil.
Step 2
State two environmental factors that affect the rate of transpiration.
Answer
- Air temperature: Higher temperatures generally increase the rate of transpiration by raising the water vapor pressure, leading to a greater water loss.
- Humidity: Lower humidity levels in the air increase the rate of transpiration since the moisture gradient between the inside of the leaf and the outside air is steeper.
Step 3
Why is transpiration important?
Answer
Transpiration is important for several reasons:
- It helps to cool the plant, preventing overheating.
- It facilitates the movement of water and minerals from the roots to other parts of the plant, essential for growth and photosynthesis.
- It maintains turgor pressure, which is vital for maintaining structure and rigidity in plants.
Step 4
Describe an experiment to demonstrate transpiration in a plant.
Answer
One way to demonstrate transpiration is by using a potted plant:
- Take a potted plant and ensure the soil is well-watered.
- Cover the soil with plastic to prevent evaporation.
- Place the potted plant in a bright area and observe for a few hours.
- Use a sealable plastic bag to cover the leaves or the entire plant to collect moisture.
- After several hours, check for condensation inside the bag, which indicates water vapor loss and demonstrates transpiration.