Question

Name the process/term for the statements given below.

(b) The cells which control the opening and closing of stomata.

Answer 1

Guard cells:

1. Guard cells are the term for the cells that control the opening and closing of stomata.
2. These cells surround the stomatal pores and guard the stomata.
3. The process of transpiration or loss of water can take place only when the stomatal pore is open.
4. Opening and closing of guard cells take place due to osmotic changes in them.
5. When guard cells absorb water and swell up and become turgid, they close the stomatal pore and stop the process of transpiration.
6. When guard cells lose water, they shrink in size and open the stomatal pore.