what happens to the rate of photosynthesis if stomata get blocked due to dust
Photosynthesis slows.
It decreases.
http://www.shef.ac.uk/aps/apsrtp/fletcher-ben/atmosphere.html
If the stomata, which are tiny openings on the surface of plant leaves, get blocked due to dust, several effects can occur that can impact the rate of photosynthesis. Here are the possible steps:
1. Dust blocks the stomata: When dust particles settle on the surface of leaves, they can block the stomata, inhibiting their ability to open and close.
2. Closure of stomata: Stomata play a crucial role in the exchange of gases, allowing carbon dioxide (CO2) to enter the leaf and oxygen (O2) to exit. If the stomata are blocked, they won't be able to open, thus preventing the entry of CO2.
3. Limiting CO2 availability: Carbon dioxide is one of the essential raw materials required for photosynthesis. The availability of CO2 directly affects the rate of photosynthesis. With blocked stomata, the supply of CO2 is limited, hindering the plant's ability to perform photosynthesis.
4. Reduced carbon fixation: Photosynthesis involves the conversion of CO2 into glucose through a series of chemical reactions. When stomata are blocked, the reduced CO2 availability reduces the rate of carbon fixation or the formation of glucose molecules.
5. Decreased energy production: Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose. When the rate of photosynthesis drops due to blocked stomata, the plant produces less glucose, resulting in reduced energy production.
6. Decreased growth and development: Without sufficient energy production from photosynthesis, plants have limited resources for growth and development. Reduced photosynthesis can lead to stunted growth, yellowing and drying of leaves, and overall weaker plants.
7. Increased susceptibility to stress: Photosynthesis also provides the plant with energy to combat various environmental stresses. With a compromised rate of photosynthesis due to blocked stomata, the plant becomes more susceptible to environmental stressors like drought, disease, and insect infestations.
It is important to note that the specific impact on photosynthesis may vary depending on the severity and duration of stomatal blockage and the plant species involved.
When stomata, which are small openings on the surface of leaves, get blocked due to dust or any other reason, it can have several effects on the rate of photosynthesis. Here's why:
1. Limitation of CO2 uptake: Stomata are responsible for the exchange of gases, particularly the uptake of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. CO2 is a key ingredient required for photosynthesis. When stomata are blocked, the entry of CO2 into the plant becomes restricted, leading to a decrease in the rate of photosynthesis.
2. Decreased availability of water: Stomata also play a crucial role in the transpiration process, which involves the loss of water vapor from leaves. This transpiration process helps to maintain a continuous flow of water from the roots to the leaves, ensuring an adequate supply for metabolic processes like photosynthesis. When stomata are blocked, transpiration is compromised, and the availability of water decreases. Without sufficient water, photosynthesis cannot proceed at its optimum rate.
3. Accumulation of harmful gases: Stomata also facilitate the release of oxygen (O2) produced during photosynthesis and the release of excess water vapor. When stomata are blocked, oxygen may start to build up inside the leaf, reaching higher concentrations than normal. This accumulation of oxygen can cause a reduction in the rate of photosynthesis, as it can interfere with certain enzymatic processes involved in the biochemical reactions of photosynthesis.
Overall, if stomata get blocked due to dust or any other factors, the rate of photosynthesis typically decreases. It is important for plants to have clean stomata surfaces to ensure an efficient exchange of gases and maintain optimal rates of photosynthesis.