Lab 3: Stomata Variation

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts from Lab 3 on Stomata Variation, gas exchange, transpiration, and plant microenvironment adaptations.

Photosynthesis

The process by which plants convert sunlight energy into chemical energy, absorbing $CO_2$ from the air to make sugar and releasing $O_2$.

Stomata

Small apertures or pores in plant leaves through which gas exchange ($CO_2$ and $O_2$) occurs and water is lost.

Transpiration

The evaporation of water from plant leaves, which cools the plant and moves water and nutrients from the roots to the leaves.

Guard cells

Pairs of specialized cells surrounding each stoma that change shape to open and close the pore, regulating water loss and gas exchange.

High stomata density

A characteristic typical of plants in moist environments, allowing high $CO_2$ uptake to maximize photosynthesis and primary productivity when water is plentiful.

Low stomata density

A characteristic typical of plants in dry environments, having fewer stomata to conserve water and avoid desiccation.

Stomatal trade-off

The balance plants must maintain between closing stomata to conserve water and keeping them open to allow gas exchange ($CO_2$ and $O_2$) for photosynthesis.