Why do Stomata need to be open?

Why do Stomata need to be open?

If we take a closer look at the leaf, we can see small pores in the surface. This is called stomata. Stomata play a great role for the survival of a plant especially during photosynthesis because it is where the exchange of carbon dioxide and oxygen happens.

The stomata of plants can be compared to a door because it is the entry of carbon dioxide and the exit of oxygen. It opens and closes due to osmotic pressure. There are reasons why stomata are close. The water balance of plants is one reason. If the plant has no water to absorb, the stomata close making the plant wither. If there is a very high concentration of carbon dioxide, the stomata also close. Once the plant can detect a low concentration of carbon dioxide, the stomata will open again. The amount of light may also cause the opening and closing of the stomata. Stomata open during daytime and close at nighttime because of the presence of light.

The stomata of plants need to be open for the plants to breathe, take in some water and light. We all know that water, light, and air (carbon dioxide) are what the plants need in order to live. If the stomata are always closed, then the plants will not have enough nutrients to support its survival. There will be no carbon dioxide to breathe and no water to absorb. The plants will wilt and die.

When the stomata of plants are open, carbon dioxide gets in. The osmotic pressure of the guard cells also increases. This is important because it helps the regulation of transpiration and evaporation of water in the plants. When the plants transpire, it cools down and more nutrients are absorbed. Transpiration also enables the massive flow of nutrients to different parts of the plant. This can only happen once the stomata are open.