Question

Active K${}^{+}$ mechanism of opening and closing of the stomata was given by

• A. Darwin
• B. Leuitt
• C. Scarth
• D. Khorana

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Leuitt

• Potassium is a very important macronutrient for plants. Its ions cause the turgor movement of guard cells.
• The gain of potassium ions by the guard cells causes a decrease in water potential of guard cells.
• This makes guard cells turgid and hence they swell. Increase in turgidity of guard cells opens the stomatal pore.
• Movement of potassium ions from the guard cells results in the increase of water potential. It becomes flaccid and stomatal pore closes. This mechanism of stomatal opening and closing was first stated by Levitt.

The correct option is B.