Question

Reduction in the weight of a potted plant after a certain period confirms loss of water through transpiration. Justify.

Answer 1

Transpiration: Transpiration is the process of water loss from the aerial parts of the plant like leaves, stems, etc. by the process of evaporation.

Weight reduction of a potted plant after transpiration:

1. The weighing method is a way of assessing transpiration that involves weighing a tiny, light-weight potted plant before and after a set period of time.
2. To avoid evaporation from surfaces other than the plant, the soil surface, and the pot should be completely covered.
3. The plant's weight reduction during that time is due to water loss through transpiration.
4. A water-filled glass container with a calibrated side tube can be used to improve the weighing process.
5. The tube would display the amount of water lost, which could be compared to weight loss using a weighing machine.
6. Any variation in weight indicates that the shoot has lost water owing to transpiration.

Thus, a reduction in the weight of a potted plant after a certain period confirms the loss of water through transpiration.