Question

Plants regulate their internal water potential by opening and closing stomata. Which events take place when stomata open?

a) Water loss through transpiration
b) Carbon dioxide uptake for photosynthesis
c) Decreased oxygen release
d) Increased guard cell turgidity

Answer 1

When stomata open, water is lost via transpiration, carbon dioxide is absorbed for photosynthesis, oxygen is released, and guard cells increase in turgidity to facilitate these processes.

Step-by-step explanation:

When stomata open on the leaf surface, several critical events occur to maintain the plant's physiological functions:

• Water loss through transpiration occurs as water vapor exits the leaf, which helps pull more water upwards from the roots.
• Carbon dioxide uptake for photosynthesis increases, as CO2 is necessary for the production of sugars during photosynthesis.
• The release of oxygen as a by-product of photosynthesis is facilitated.
• Increased guard cell turgidity; guard cells swell to open the stomata, allowing for gas exchange and water vapor release.

Stomata opening is a critical process that allows plants to engage in photosynthesis while managing their water loss. Understanding these processes is vital for comprehending how plants respond to changing environmental conditions.