What is the function of thin flexible petiole?

Options

A. It helps the plant to climb
B. It increases the rate of respiration
C. It allows leaf blade to flutter in wind there by cooling the leaf and bringing fresh air to leaf surface.
D. It decreases the rate of transpiration.

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Structure of the Leaf**:
- A leaf consists of three main parts: the leaf base, petiole, and lamina (leaf blade). The petiole is the stalk that connects the leaf blade to the stem of the plant.

2. **Identifying the Role of the Petiole**:
- The petiole serves multiple functions, one of which is to support the leaf blade. It holds the leaf in a position that maximizes exposure to sunlight.

3. **Exploring the Flexibility of the Petiole**:
- A thin and flexible petiole allows the leaf blade to move. This flexibility is crucial for the leaf's interaction with environmental factors such as wind.

4. **Function of Leaf Movement**:
- When the leaf blade flutters in the wind, it can help cool the leaf. This movement also facilitates the exchange of gases by bringing fresh air to the surface of the leaf, which is essential for photosynthesis and respiration.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the primary function of a thin flexible petiole is to allow the leaf blade to flutter in the wind, which helps in cooling the leaf and enhancing gas exchange.

6. **Final Answer**:
- The correct option is **C**: It allows the leaf blade to flutter in the wind thereby cooling the leaf and bringing fresh air to the leaf surface.