Photosynthesis vs Transpiration — Difference (with Table & FAQs)
Photosynthesis vs Transpiration compared side by side — a 6-row comparison table, 4 key points and 3 exam FAQs. Class 10 Biology, free and no sign-up.
TL;DR: Photosynthesis vs Transpiration compared side by side — a 6-row comparison table, 4 key points and 3 exam FAQs. Class 10 Biology, free and no sign-up.
Written & reviewed by the Syllab.in Academic Team (CBSE/NCERT subject experts) · Updated
The main difference between Photosynthesis and Transpiration: Photosynthesis is the process by which plants manufacture food using sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide, producing oxygen as a byproduct. Transpiration is
Photosynthesis vs Transpiration — Comparison Table
| Basis | Photosynthesis | Transpiration |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Food production using light energy | Water loss through leaves as vapor |
| Raw Materials | Water, carbon dioxide, sunlight | Water from soil |
| Products | Glucose and oxygen | Water vapor and cooling effect |
| Organ Involved | Occurs in leaves | Occurs through stomata in leaves |
| Light Requirement | Requires light energy | Can occur during day and night |
| Purpose | Energy production for plant | Cooling and nutrient transport |
Key Points
- Photosynthesis captures light energy to produce organic compounds while transpiration is a water loss process
- Photosynthesis occurs in chloroplasts while transpiration occurs through stomata
- Photosynthesis produces oxygen which is released to the atmosphere
- Transpiration is essential for plant cooling and helps transport water and minerals from roots
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between photosynthesis and transpiration?
Photosynthesis is the process that makes food: the leaf uses light energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose, releasing oxygen. Transpiration is the loss of water vapour from the plant, mainly through the stomata of the leaves.
Do both happen only in daylight?
Photosynthesis needs light and stops in the dark. Transpiration continues at a reduced rate at night, though it is much faster in the day because the stomata are open and the temperature is higher.
Is transpiration useful to a plant or just a loss?
It is both. Water is lost, but the loss creates the pull that draws water and dissolved minerals up from the roots, and the evaporation cools the leaf. This upward pull is called the transpiration pull.