What is transpiration? List two functions.

Transpiration is the loss of water vapour from plants through stomata (and cuticle/lenticels).

Two key functions:

1. Creates transpiration pull: Water evaporates from leaves → pulls water upward from roots through xylem — the main mechanism driving water/mineral transport in tall trees.
2. Cooling effect: Evaporation from leaf surfaces lowers plant temperature — like sweating in humans.

Bonus: Contributes to the water cycle and local rainfall.

Transpiration moves water from roots to leaves and cools the plant, driven by water evaporation through stomata.