In relation to the water cycle, which statement concerning transpiration is NOT true?

Transpiration is a crucial process in the water cycle wherein plants release water vapor into the atmosphere through small openings called stomata. This process is influenced primarily by environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity.

The statement regarding transpiration and the relationship between relative humidity and transpiration is not true because, generally, as relative humidity increases, the rate of transpiration decreases. High humidity means the air is saturated with moisture, which reduces the water vapor gradient between the inside of the plant and the external environment, resulting in less transpiration. In contrast, low relative humidity encourages higher transpiration rates as the moisture gradient is greater.

The other statements reflect accurate information about transpiration. It is indeed true that transpiration occurs when water vapor is released from plants, and it is also true that transpiration can increase with rising temperatures due to enhanced evaporation rates. Furthermore, transpiration plays a significant role in the water cycle as it contributes to atmospheric moisture, facilitating precipitation and influencing weather patterns.