where are most of the stomata located? how does its position aid both their function and the functioning of the plant?
please help!!!
Most of the stomata are located on the underside of leaves in plants. Stomata are minute openings or pores found in the epidermis of leaves and stems that regulate gas exchange in plants.
The positioning of stomata on the underside of leaves has several advantages.
1. Reducing water loss: Since the lower surface of leaves is typically shaded and cooler than the upper surface, having stomata on the underside helps to reduce the rate of water loss through evaporation, as the cooler temperature slows down water loss through transpiration.
2. Minimizing direct exposure to sunlight: Placing stomata on the underside of leaves helps to prevent excessive exposure to direct sunlight, reducing the chances of damage or overheating. This is especially important in hot and arid environments, where excessive sunlight can lead to excessive water loss or even tissue damage.
3. Increasing efficiency of gas exchange: The presence of stomata on the lower leaf surface facilitates efficient gas exchange. Carbon dioxide (CO2) enters the leaf through stomata, while oxygen (O2) and water vapor exit. By locating most stomata on the underside of leaves, plants maximize their surface area, allowing for a larger number of stomata and therefore a greater surface area available for gas exchange.
Overall, the positioning of stomata on the underside of leaves helps plants balance the need for gas exchange while minimizing water loss and the risk of damage from sunlight.