In a diagram of the water cycle, which arrow best represents the process of transpiration?

• A. The arrow showing water vapor leaving plant leaves and entering the atmosphere
• B. The arrow showing water evaporating from the surface of a lake
• C. The arrow showing clouds forming from condensed water vapor
• D. The arrow showing rainwater seeping into the ground

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of transpiration: Transpiration is the process by which water is absorbed by plant roots, transported through the plant, and released as water vapor from the stomata in the leaves into the atmosphere.
2. Identify the key feature of transpiration in the water cycle: It specifically involves water vapor leaving plant leaves and entering the atmosphere, which distinguishes it from other processes like evaporation or condensation.
3. Analyze the options provided: Look for the option that describes water vapor leaving plant leaves and entering the atmosphere, as this is the hallmark of transpiration.
4. Eliminate incorrect options: For example, water evaporating from a lake is evaporation, clouds forming from condensed water vapor is condensation, and rainwater seeping into the ground is infiltration. None of these describe transpiration.
5. Select the correct arrow: The arrow that shows water vapor leaving plant leaves and entering the atmosphere is the one that best represents transpiration in the water cycle.