Question

Transpiration is the loss of water from the surfaces of a plant. Which of the following statements describe(s) why transpiration is useful for plants?

I. It gets rid of excess water, protecting plant cells from bursting.

II. It cools the plant down, preventing overheating on sunny days.

III. It enables the mass flow of inorganic nutrients and water up the plant body.

• A. Only I
• B. I and III
• C. II and III
• D. I, II and III

Answer 1

The correct option is D

I, II and III

The correct option is D.

Explanation of the correct option:

Statement (I):

1. Transpiration aids in the maintenance of cell turgidity and also keeps the cell's osmotic balance in check.
2. To prevent plant degradation or cell bursting, excessive water is eliminated from the plant's cells by the process of transpiration.

Statement (II):

1. When the temperature of the plant's environment rises, the plants must be cooled to keep the temperature inside the plant stable.
2. In that condition, more water is removed from the leaf apertures, resulting in an increase in transpiration rate to regulate the temperature, which cools the plant.

Statement (III):

1. Transpiration causes transpiration pull, which enhances the rate of water and mineral absorption from the soil through the plant's roots.
2. It also aids in the mass flow of absorbed nutrients throughout the plant.

Final answer: Transpiration is advantageous for plants as it helps to get rid of the excess water in plants, cool down the plant during high-temperature conditions, and enhance the mass flow of water and minerals.