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Multiple Choice
Which of the following factors would tend to increase the rate of transpiration in plants?
A
Lower temperature
B
Increased wind speed
C
Higher humidity levels
D
Reduced light intensity
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that transpiration is the process by which water is lost from plants to the atmosphere, primarily through small openings in leaves called stomata.
Recognize that several environmental factors can influence the rate of transpiration, including temperature, humidity, wind speed, and light intensity.
Consider how wind speed affects transpiration: Increased wind speed can remove the humid air surrounding the leaf surface, thereby increasing the concentration gradient between the inside and outside of the leaf, which enhances water vapor loss.
Analyze the other options: Lower temperature generally reduces transpiration as it decreases the kinetic energy of water molecules. Higher humidity levels decrease the rate of transpiration because the air is already saturated with moisture, reducing the concentration gradient. Reduced light intensity can lead to stomatal closure, thus decreasing transpiration.
Conclude that increased wind speed is the factor that would most likely increase the rate of transpiration, as it enhances the removal of water vapor from the leaf surface, maintaining a high concentration gradient.