Opening and closing of stomata is a function performed by

Correct option is D

The correct answer is (D) guard cells

Explanation:

The opening and closing of stomata are controlled by the guard cells. These specialized cells surround each stoma (the pore in the leaf) and regulate its size by changing their shape. When the guard cells absorb water, they swell, causing the stomata to open. Conversely, when they lose water, they shrink, causing the stomata to close.

Information Booster:

1. Guard cells: These cells have a unique ability to change their shape based on water content, which controls gas exchange in plants.

2. Stomatal function: The opening and closing of stomata allow for the exchange of gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide during photosynthesis and respiration.

3. Water loss: The stomatal movement also helps to minimize water loss through transpiration, an important process for plant hydration.

4. Turgor pressure: The swelling of guard cells is driven by turgor pressure, which is the pressure of water inside the cells.

Additional Information:

• Stamen: The stamen is the male reproductive part of a flower and has no role in stomatal function.

• Chlorophyll: Chlorophyll is the pigment responsible for absorbing light during photosynthesis, but it does not regulate stomatal movement.

• Chloroplast: Chloroplasts are the organelles where photosynthesis takes place, but they do not control the opening and closing of stomata.