Answers

Life Processes

Why is transpiration important for plants?

07/11/2024

Science

10th

Answers

Transpiration is crucial for plants because it facilitates water and nutrient transport, provides evaporative cooling, and maintains cell turgor. It essentially acts as a “pumping” mechanism, drawing water and minerals up from the roots and distributing them throughout the plant. Additionally, the release of water vapor through transpiration helps to cool the plant, especially in hot conditions.
Here’s a more detailed look at why transpiration is important:
1. Water and Nutrient Transport:
Transpiration creates a “transpiration pull” which draws water and dissolved minerals up from the roots through the xylem.
This movement of water is essential for photosynthesis, as it provides the necessary raw material for the process.
It also ensures that water and nutrients reach all parts of the plant, supporting growth and development.
2. Evaporative Cooling:
As water evaporates from the surface of leaves through the stomata, it absorbs heat from the plant, effectively cooling it down.
This cooling mechanism is particularly important in hot weather, preventing plants from overheating.
3. Cell Turgor:
Transpiration helps maintain the pressure inside plant cells, known as turgor pressure.
Turgor pressure keeps cells rigid and prevents wilting.
It’s also essential for cell growth and expansion.
4. Other Benefits:
Transpiration can help balance the amount of water in the plant and prevent waterlogging.
It also facilitates the absorption of carbon dioxide for photosynthesis.
The movement of water during transpiration can also help distribute hormones and other signaling molecules throughout the plant

04/05/2025