Question

Describe the roles played by stomata and guard cells. What would happen to a plant if these cells did not function correctly?

a) Stomata regulate the exchange of gases, while guard cells regulate water loss; if these cells didn't function, the plant would overheat.
b) Stomata regulate the exchange of gases, while guard cells regulate photosynthesis; if these cells didn't function, the plant would die.
c) Stomata regulate the exchange of gases, while guard cells regulate water loss; if these cells didn't function, the plant would have reduced gas exchange and water loss.
d) Stomata regulate the exchange of nutrients, while guard cells regulate transpiration; if these cells didn't function, the plant would wilt.

Answer 1

Stomata regulate gas exchange, while guard cells regulate stomatal opening and closing. If these cells did not function correctly, the plant's water flow would be disrupted, impacting its health and survival.

Step-by-step explanation:

Stomata play a role in regulating the exchange of gases, allowing oxygen to enter and exit the plant. Guard cells, which surround the stomata, regulate the opening and closing of the stomata. If these cells did not function correctly, photosynthesis would continue but transpiration would cease. This would interfere with the necessary continuous flow of water upward from the roots to the leaves, ultimately affecting the plant's overall health and survival.