Investigation 11: Transpiration

Flashcards focusing on key vocabulary terms and concepts related to plant transpiration and the underlying biological processes.

Transpiration

The process of water evaporation from plant surfaces.

Stomata

Small pores on leaves that allow for gas exchange, including the loss of water and entry of CO2.

Guard Cells

Specialized cells that regulate the opening and closing of stomata to balance gas exchange and water loss.

Osmosis

The movement of water across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of higher water potential to an area of lower water potential.

Water Potential

The potential energy of water in a system, determining the direction of water movement.

Xylem

Vascular tissue in plants responsible for transporting water and nutrients from the roots to the leaves.

Homeostasis

The ability of an organism to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes.

TACT Mechanism

An acronym for transpiration, adhesion, cohesion, and tension; describes the forces that move water and nutrients up the xylem.

Active Transport

The process that moves molecules against their concentration gradient, requiring energy.

Macronutrients

Essential nutrients required in larger quantities for plant growth, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.