2.5.9

Stomata

Test yourself

Guard Cells and Stomata

Stomata are gaps in the lower epidermis of leaves that facilitate (make easier) the diffusion of gases, including evaporated water, in and out of the leaf. Guard cells can open and close the stomata:

Illustrative background for Opening the stomataIllustrative background for Opening the stomata ?? "content

Opening the stomata

  • The guard cells can open the stomata by taking up lots of water, causing them to swell.
Illustrative background for Closing the stomataIllustrative background for Closing the stomata ?? "content

Closing the stomata

  • To close the stomata, the guard cells lose water and return to a limp state.

Jump to other topics

1Cell Biology

1.1What's in Cells?

1.2Cell Division

1.3Transport in Cells

2Organisation

2.1Principles of Organisation

2.2Enzymes

2.3Circulatory System

2.4Non-Communicable Diseases

2.5Plant Tissues, Organs & Systems

3Infection & Response

4Bioenergetics

5Homeostasis & Response

5.1Homeostasis

5.2The Human Nervous System

5.3Hormonal Coordination in Humans

5.4Plant Hormones

6Inheritance, Variation & Evolution

7Ecology

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