What role does transpiration play in the water cycle?

Question

Vivian Ahern · Accepted Answer

Transpiration is the evaporation of water from internal surfaces of living parts of plants (leaves, stems, etc.).

In water cycle, plants have critical roles. We know that forest areas guarantee continuation of streamflow due to water regulation in such areas compared to that in open (plant poor) areas.

Transpiration depends on some parameters, such as atmospheric humidity and temperature, area of plant leaves, stems, etc. Opening and closing the stomata is possibly the plant's most important means of regulating water loss via transpiration.

Transpiration accounts for approximately 10% of all evaporating water. Evaporation occurs from streams, lakes, seas, etc. When you think almost 70% of the Earth is covered by seas, you can understand the magnitude of transpiration.

Let me assume that 30% of evaporation occurs from land area. And one-third of this evaporation is called transpiration.

Evan Abrahamson · Answer

undefined Transpiration plays a crucial role in the water cycle by releasing water vapor from plants into the atmosphere. This water vapor eventually condenses to form clouds, which can lead to precipitation, completing the water cycle.