Question

In the context of photosynthesis, the leaf functions in all of the following except:

A) The leaf is responsible for allowing carbon dioxide to enter, which is required for photosynthesis.

B) The leaf is responsible for allowing water to enter, which is required for photosynthesis.

C) The leaf is filled with chloroplasts, which contain chlorophyll that trap light energy necessary for photosynthesis.

D) The leaf is responsible for releasing oxygen, which is a byproduct of photosynthesis.

Answer 1

While leaves are crucial for photosynthesis, capturing light energy with chlorophyll, and exchanging gases via stomata, they are not responsible for water uptake; this is the role of roots.

Step-by-step explanation:

Leaves are essential for photosynthesis, a process in which plants make food using sunlight. Leaves contain specialized cells called mesophyll where photosynthesis takes place, and within these cells are chloroplasts which have chlorophyll to capture light energy. The entry of carbon dioxide and release of oxygen happens through the stomata, regulated by guard cells. However, leaves are not responsible for allowing water to enter for photosynthesis. This function is carried out by the roots of the plant. Water is transported from the roots to the leaves through a process called transpiration.