Final answer:
Plants reduce water loss by closing their stomata to conserve water, especially in dry or hot conditions. This process decreases transpiration and helps maintain internal water balance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Plants can reduce water loss by closing their stomata. Stomata are pores found on the leaf surface that control water loss and gas exchange. When environmental conditions are dry or hot, plants conserve water by closing these stomata. This reduces transpiration, which is the evaporative loss of water from leaves. Dry soil has a lower water potential than wet soil, prompting stomata to close to maintain the plant's internal water balance. Additionally, plants with deep roots, reduced foliage, and sunken stomata are better adapted to arid conditions.