Plant Transpiration and Xerophytic Adaptations

A set of vocabulary flashcards defining key physiological roles of transpiration and specific structural adaptations of xerophytic plants.

Wilting

A condition resulting from excessive transpiration when water loss exceeds water absorption by the plant.

Xerophytes

Plants that live in dry environments and possess special adaptations to reduce water loss.

Cooling effect of transpiration

The reduction of plant temperature during hot weather as heat is used to evaporate water from leaf surfaces.

Transpiration pull

A suction force generated by transpiration that assists in the uptake of water into xylem vessels.

Transport of mineral salts

A function of transpiration that aids the movement of dissolved mineral salts from roots to other parts of the plant.

Maintenance of cell turgidity

The preservation of plant cell turgidity when water is available, aided by transpiration encouraging root water uptake.

Thick waxy cuticle

An adaptation that reduces water loss through the leaf surface by limiting evaporation.

Reduced leaf surface area

The presence of small leaves or leaves modified into spines to decrease the area available for water loss.

Sunken stomata

Stomata situated in leaf depressions where accumulated water vapour lowers the concentration gradient and rate of transpiration.

Few stomata

An adaptation where a lower number of stomatal openings decreases the pathways through which water vapour can escape.

Hairy leaves

Leaves with surface hairs that trap moist air, thereby reducing the diffusion of water vapour into the atmosphere.

Rolled leaves

Leaves that curl inward during dry conditions to trap moist air around the stomata and minimize water loss.

Leaves reduced to spines

Leaf modifications found in plants like cacti that substantially reduce the total surface area for transpiration.

Thick, fleshy stems

Water-storing stems that allow xerophytes to endure extended periods with minimal rainfall.

Deep roots

Roots that penetrate deep into the ground to access water far below the soil surface.

Widely spreading roots

Roots extending horizontally to absorb moisture across an extensive area of soil.

Closing of stomata

A physiological response in hot, dry conditions that reduces the quantity of water vapour lost to the atmosphere.

Shedding leaves

The dropping of leaves during dry seasons to decrease the surface area available for water loss.

Thick leaves

Leaves that lower exposed surface area relative to their volume and can store water in certain plants.