When guard cells take up K+, they bow outward, widening the stomatal pore. Stomates close when K+ is actively transported out of the guard cells.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This is the correct explanation of how stomates or stomata function. When guard cells take up K+, they become turgid and bow outward, widening the stomatal pore, which allows for gas exchange in the leaf. However, when K+ is actively transported out of the guard cells, they lose turgor pressure and the pore closes, preventing water loss through transpiration.

When Guard Cells Take Up K+, They Bow Outward, Widening