What Is the Process of Transpiration?
The process of transpiration is when water moves through plants from the roots to the leaves, then changes to vapor as it leaves the plant. Transpiration cools the plant and also provides it with nutrients, carbon dioxide and water.
The rate of transpiration is dependent on a few different factors:
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Temperature
As the temperature increases, the transpiration rate goes up. The openings in the plant that release the vapor are called stoma, and when the temperature is warm, the stoma are open. Colder temperatures cause the stoma to close.
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Relative humidity
Because it is difficult for vapor to be released into damp air, the less humid it is, the higher the rate of transpiration.
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Wind and air movement
The transpiration rate increases with increased air movement. One reason is because air movement is constantly bringing drier air close to the plant, which relates to relative humidity.
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Soil and moisture availability
If the soil does not have enough water, the transpiration rate decreases.
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Type of plant
The transpiration rate differs depending on the type of plant. Cacti, for example, conserve water and have low transpiration rates.
