the image shows a magnified view of a leaf's surface with the stomata visible. what’s the significance of these structures in the process of photosynthesis?

’re the sites of maximum photosynthesizing activity because of the concentration of chloroplasts.
they’re the storage sites of glucose, which is produced during the process of photosynthesis.
they absorb water vapor from the atmosphere, providing water to the plant for photosynthesis.
they allow the exchange of gases between cells in the leaf and the external environment.
they allow light energy to enter the leaf, which is vital for the process of photosynthesis.

The correct answer is option (d) They allow the exchange of gases between cells in the leaf and the external environment.

Stomata are the tiny openings present in the epidermis (outer layer of cells) of the leaf. They have a pore which is guarded by the guard cells which controls the opening and closing of the stomata. Air enters and exits through the stomata.

The main funtion of stomata is to facilitate the gaseous exchange. The gas exchange that occurs when the stomata are open helps in the process of photosynthesis. During photosynthesis, carbon dioxide is taken in from the atmosphere and oxygen is released as a by-product of photosynthesis. The glucose produced is converted into the starch and stored in the leaves.

Also, water vapour diffuses through the stomata into the atmosphere by a process called the transpiration.

Thus, stomata are the structures that are mainly involved in the gaseous exchange between the cells of the leaf and the atmosphere.

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