Multiple choice

When the water potential of the guard cells is lower than that of the adjacent cells

  1. the stomata closes

  2. the guard cells become flaccid

  3. the stomata opens

  4. the guard cells develop kidney shaped structure
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
C Correct answer
Explanation

When guard cells have lower (more negative) water potential than adjacent cells, water enters them by osmosis, making them turgid. Turgid guard cells bend outward due to uneven cell wall thickening, opening the stomatal pore. Lower water potential drives water uptake, not closure.

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