soil-plant-atmosphere continuum (SPAC): Flashcards
(6 cards)
Question: What is the soil-plant-atmosphere continuum (SPAC)?
Answer: The SPAC is a conceptual framework describing the interconnected system of water movement and exchange between the soil, plants, and the atmosphere.
Question: What is the role of the soil in the SPAC?
Answer: The soil serves as a reservoir of water and nutrients, and roots absorb water and nutrients from the soil.
Question: How does water move from the roots to the leaves in the SPAC?
Answer: Water moves from the roots to the leaves through the xylem vessels in the stem, driven by transpiration, which creates a suction force.
Flashcard 4:
Question: What are stomata, and what is their role in the SPAC?
Answer: Stomata are small openings on leaf surfaces that regulate gas exchange. They allow water vapor to diffuse out of the leaves during transpiration.
Flashcard 5:
Question: What happens to water vapor released during transpiration?
Answer: Water vapor released during transpiration enters the atmosphere, contributing to atmospheric moisture and the water cycle.
Flashcard 6:
Question: Why is the SPAC important?
Answer: Understanding the SPAC is crucial for studying plant water relations, crop irrigation, ecosystem hydrology, and climate dynamics.