What is the impact of air flow on the rate of transpiration?

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The correct answer highlights that better air flow increases the rate of transpiration. This is primarily because transpiration is the process through which water vapor is lost from plant surfaces, mainly through the stomata. When air flow is improved, it helps to remove the moist air around the stomata more quickly.

In still air, moisture can build up around the leaves, creating a saturated environment that slows down the diffusion of water vapor from the leaf into the surrounding air. Conversely, increased air movement disperses moisture rapidly, which maintains a drier environment around the leaves and encourages a greater concentration gradient for water vapor. This gradient drives the rate of diffusion, leading to enhanced transpiration rates as water vapor moves out of the plant and into the drier air.

Therefore, as air flow improves, the rate of transpiration increases due to the enhanced efficiency of the moisture gradient maintained around the stomata.

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