Introduction

Water is one of the most essential components for survival of all living organisms, including plants. Plants use water for various purposes such as photosynthesis, respiration and maintaining turgor pressure. In this article we will explore in detail how plants use water to survive.

Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis is the process through which plants manufacture their food using water, carbon dioxide and sunlight. During photosynthesis, water is absorbed by the roots from the soil and is transported through the plant's stem to the leaves where it is used to make glucose and oxygen. The oxygen is released to the atmosphere while glucose is used as a source of energy for the plant.

Turgor Pressure

Turgor pressure is a pressure exerted by the water inside plant cells against the cell wall. This pressure gives the plant its rigidity and allows it to remain firm and upright. The loss of water reduces the turgor pressure which in turn leads to wilting of the plant. Therefore, plants must regulate their water intake through the roots and transportation to various parts of the plant in order to maintain the turgor pressure.

Transpiration

Transpiration is the process through which plants lose water through the stomata on the surface of their leaves in order to maintain temperature and exchange gases. The loss of water through transpiration creates a negative pressure that leads to the upward movement of water from the roots to the leaves. This process is called the transpiration pull and is possible due to the cohesive and adhesive properties of water. By losing water through transpiration, plants are able to regulate their temperature and maintain proper gas exchange.

Respiration

Respiration is the process through which plants break down glucose to release energy for cellular processes. Water is essential for this process as it is used to break down glucose through a chemical reaction called hydrolysis. Water is also a byproduct of respiration.

Drought Tolerance

Plants have various mechanisms in place to tolerate drought conditions. Some plants have modified leaves that reduce the amount of water lost through transpiration. Other plants have root systems that grow deep into the soil in search of water. Some plants have mechanisms that enable them to close their stomata during drought conditions in order to reduce water loss through transpiration. By tolerating drought, plants are able to survive and thrive in arid conditions.

Conclusion

Water is an essential component for the survival of all living organisms including plants. Plants use water for various purposes such as photosynthesis, respiration, maintaining turgor pressure and regulating temperature. Plants have various mechanisms in place to regulate their water intake and tolerate drought conditions. Therefore, it is important to ensure that plants have sufficient access to water in order to thrive.