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Difference Between Transpiration and Guttation

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Introduction on Transpiration and Guttation

Transpiration and guttation are both processes through which plants release water, but they differ in mechanism and purpose. Transpiration is the loss of water vapor from plant leaves through stomata, driven by evaporation. Guttation, on the other hand, is the exudation of liquid water from leaf edges due to root pressure, occurring in high humidity conditions.


Comparison Between Transpiration and Guttation in Table Form:

Aspect

Transpiration

Guttation

Definition

Loss of water vapor from leaves through stomata

Exudation of liquid water from leaf edges or tips

Mechanism

Occurs due to evaporation and diffusion

Caused by root pressure forcing water out

Time of Occurrence

Happens mostly during the day when stomata are open

Occurs mostly at night or early morning when humidity is high

Exit Points

Stomata (leaf pores)

Hydathodes (specialized pores at leaf edges)

Driving Force

Evaporation due to sunlight and low humidity

Root pressure generated by water absorption from soil

Water Form

Water is released as vapor

Water is released as liquid droplets

Conditions Required

High temperature, low humidity, wind

High soil moisture, low transpiration rate, high humidity

Mineral Content

Pure water with no dissolved minerals

Contains dissolved minerals and nutrients

Significance

Helps in cooling the plant and nutrient transport

Relieves excess root pressure, prevents damage from water buildup

Examples

Common in most plants, including trees and shrubs

Seen in plants like grasses, strawberries, and some tropical plants



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FAQs on Difference Between Transpiration and Guttation

1. Difference between transpiration and evaporation?

  • Transpiration is the loss of water vapor from plant leaves through stomata, driven by evaporation.

  • Evaporation is the direct conversion of water into vapor from any surface (soil, water bodies) due to heat.

2. Difference between guttation and dew?

  • Guttation is the release of liquid water from plant leaves due to root pressure.

  • Dew is water droplets formed by condensation of atmospheric moisture on surfaces due to cooling.

3. What is guttation?

Guttation is the exudation of liquid water from leaf edges or tips through hydathodes, caused by root pressure when soil moisture is high and transpiration is low.

4. Difference between transpiration and photosynthesis?

  • Transpiration is the loss of water vapor from leaves, helping in cooling and nutrient transport.

  • Photosynthesis is the process of making food (glucose) using sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water.

5. What is transpiration?

Transpiration is the process by which water vapor is lost from plant leaves through stomata, helping in cooling, nutrient transport, and maintaining water balance.

6. What are two differences between transpiration and sweating?

  1. Transpiration occurs in plants, while sweating occurs in humans and animals.

  2. Transpiration helps in water movement and cooling, whereas sweating helps in body temperature regulation.

7. Is guttation caused by transpiration?

No, guttation occurs when transpiration is low (at night or in high humidity) and root pressure forces water out through hydathodes.

8. What is the difference between transpiration and translocation?

  • Transpiration is the loss of water vapor through leaves.

  • Translocation is the movement of nutrients and sugars (produced in photosynthesis) through the phloem to different parts of the plant.

9. What is the difference between guttation and exudation?

  • Guttation is the natural release of water droplets due to root pressure.

  • Exudation is the secretion of plant fluids (like resins, latex, or sap) due to injuries or metabolic processes.

10. What is the difference between transpiration and transportation?

  • Transpiration is the evaporation of water from plant leaves.

  • Transportation refers to the movement of substances (water, nutrients, food) within the plant through xylem and phloem.