The process of opening and closing stomata to either retain or release water is controlled by complex mechanisms involving the movement of ions and changes in pressure within the guard cells surrounding the stomatal pore.
1. Opening of stomata: When a plant needs to take in carbon dioxide for photosynthesis or release water vapor for cooling through transpiration, the guard cells surrounding the stomatal pore take up potassium ions (K+) from neighboring cells. This uptake of ions causes a decrease in water potential within the guard cells, leading to an influx of water due to osmosis. As the guard cells fill with water, they become turgid and swell, causing them to bow outwards and create an opening in the stomatal pore.
2. Closing of stomata: When a plant needs to conserve water to prevent excessive transpiration, the guard cells actively pump out potassium ions, leading to an increase in water potential and loss of water from the guard cells. This loss of water causes the guard cells to become flaccid and shrink, closing the stomatal pore.
The opening and closing of stomata is also regulated by environmental factors such as light intensity, humidity, temperature, and carbon dioxide levels. For example, stomata are usually open during the day to allow for photosynthesis and closed at night to conserve water. Additionally, high levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere can lead to stomatal closure to prevent excessive water loss.
Overall, the process of opening and closing stomata is essential for plants to regulate water balance, gas exchange, and overall physiological functioning.
What is the process of opening and closing stomata to either retain or release water?
5 answers
Sorry I meant to say, what’s the name?
The process of opening and closing stomata to either retain or release water is called stomatal regulation.
Pick from photosynthesis, transpiration or cellular respiration
The process of opening and closing stomata to either retain or release water is primarily associated with transpiration, as it involves the movement of water vapor through the plant's stomata.