How Do Stomata Work in Photosynthesis?
Stomata are anatomical features that are located on the underside of the leaves of plants that live on land. These structures, which are the ‘pores’ of the plant’s skin, provide openings for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Water is also released through the stomata in a process called transpiration. Stomata are opened and closed with cells called guard cells. These cells swell by the process of osmosis when there is an excess of water in the plant. This swelling causes the stomata to open, allowing water to evaporate. When the amount of water within the plant begins to lower below the point necessary for photosynthesis, the guard cells shrink and the stomata close to conserve water. In addition to the correct level of water, a plant requires carbon dioxide for the process of photosynthesis. The plant also requires a means to release the oxygen that is a byproduct of the photosynthesis process. Stomata offer the plant both a means of entry and exit as the gas transfer takes p
