What Is Plant Physiology?
Plant physiology is the scientific study of how plants function and respond to their environment. It encompasses processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, nutrient uptake, water transport, growth regulation, and responses to environmental stimuli.
Key Processes in Plant Physiology
Photosynthesis: The process by which green plants convert light energy into chemical energy, producing glucose and oxygen from carbon dioxide and water.
Transpiration: The loss of water vapor through stomata, which helps in the upward movement of water and minerals from roots to leaves.
Plant Hormones: Chemical messengers like auxins, gibberellins, and cytokinins regulate growth, development, and stress responses.
Why Study Plant Physiology?
Understanding plant physiology is essential for improving crop yields, developing drought-resistant varieties, and addressing challenges posed by climate change. It also deepens our appreciation of the natural world and supports sustainable agriculture.