CBSE Class 10 Answered

The rate at which transpiration occurs is influenced by various internal and external factors.

The internal factors are mostly connected with the stomata - their numbers, structural features, distribution and how open they are.

The following are the external features need to be looked at with more detail:

i) Temperature - A high external temperature will create evaporation from the mesophyll cells of the leaf, leading to high transpiration rate.

ii) Humidity - The humidity difference between the inside and outside of the leaf determines the rate of transpiration. Normally the humidity just inside the stomata is very high as it is full with water vapour. It will move out fastest if there is a steep concentration gradient, ie if the surrounding air has a low humidity. High external humidity will cause a slow transpiration rate.

iii) Wind - If the air movment is less, the water vapour leaving the stomata will tend to build up around the stomata. This will create a high humidity right outside the stomata, and so transpiration will be less. So the more windy it is, the faster transpiration will occur.

iv) Atomospheric Pressure - The lower the atmospheric pressure, the greater the rate of evaporation.

v) Light - When the light is increased, the stomata open wide, allowing a lot of transpiration.

vi) Water Supply - For transpiration to occur, the walls of the mesophyll cells need to be wet. So the plant needs a decent water supply. If it can't get enough water, the stomata close to conserve water - reducing the rate of transpiration.