How much water do plants lose in transpiration?

Transpiration is the process through which plants lose water in the form of vapour from their leaves, stems and other aerial parts. On a hot summer day, you may notice that your lawn or garden plants look wilted and droopy. This is because water loss due to transpiration is at its peak during these hours.

The process of transpiration

Transpiration is a crucial biological process that plays a vital role in the growth and survival of plants. It is the process by which water moves from the roots, through the plant, and out through the leaves. The water lost due to transpiration is replaced by water taken up by the roots from the soil.

The process of transpiration is controlled by the stomata, which are small openings on the surface of leaves. When the stomata are open, water vapour is released from the plant, leading to water loss. The rate of transpiration depends on several factors, including temperature, humidity, wind, and soil moisture.

Factors that influence transpiration

Temperature is one of the most critical factors that influence transpiration. As the temperature increases, the rate of transpiration also increases. This is because warm air holds more moisture than cold air, and this causes the water to evaporate from the plant more quickly.

Humidity is another factor that affects transpiration. As the air becomes more humid, the rate of transpiration slows down. This is because the air already contains a significant amount of moisture content, and the plant does not need to release more water.

Wind also influences transpiration. When the wind blows, it carries away the moisture surrounding the plant and replaces it with dry air. This increases the rate of transpiration.

Soil moisture is another critical factor that affects transpiration. When the soil is dry, the plant will lose more water to maintain the balance, and this will increase the rate of transpiration.

The amount of water lost due to transpiration

The amount of water lost due to transpiration varies significantly depending on several factors. In general, however, it is estimated that plants lose around 90% of the water absorbed by their roots to transpiration.

This means that only 10% of the water absorbed by the roots is used for growth and other metabolic activities. The vast majority of the water is lost to the atmosphere through transpiration.

The importance of transpiration

Transpiration is essential for the survival and growth of plants. It helps to regulate the temperature of the plant and keeps it cool during hot weather. It also plays a crucial role in the transport of nutrients and minerals from the soil to the plant.

Moreover, the water lost due to transpiration helps to maintain the balance of water content in the air. This, in turn, helps to regulate the global water cycle and maintain the overall ecological balance of the planet.

Conclusion

Transpiration is a crucial biological process that plays a vital role in the growth and survival of plants. The amount of water lost due to transpiration varies depending on several factors, including temperature, humidity, wind, and soil moisture. However, in general, plants lose around 90% of the water absorbed by their roots to transpiration.

Understanding the factors that influence transpiration is essential for farmers, gardeners, and other individuals working with plants. By regulating these factors, it is possible to help plants grow better and healthier, while also conserving water and preserving the environment.