Guard cells help in _______ of stomata.

Options

A. opening
B. closing
C. Both opening and closing
D. None of these

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Guard Cells**: Guard cells are specialized cells located on the surface of leaves. They play a crucial role in regulating the size of stomata, which are small openings that allow for gas exchange.

2. **Function of Stomata**: Stomata are essential for the exchange of gases, such as oxygen and carbon dioxide, between the plant and its environment. When stomata are open, gas exchange occurs; when they are closed, gas exchange is restricted.

3. **Role of Guard Cells**: The guard cells can change shape to either open or close the stomata. When the guard cells take in water, they swell and bend, causing the stomata to open. Conversely, when they lose water, they shrink and the stomata close.

4. **Conclusion**: Since guard cells are responsible for both opening and closing the stomata, the correct answer to the question is that guard cells help in **both** opening and closing of stomata.

5. **Final Answer**: The answer is C, which indicates that guard cells help in both the opening and closing of stomata.

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