Respiration in plants
Just like animals, plants also respire (take in oxygen and release out carbon dioxide). They use oxygen for the breakdown of food and releases energy. It can be represented by an equation as:
Glucose (food) + Oxygen → Carbon dioxide + Water + Energy.
1. The intake of oxygen and release of carbon dioxide is through different routes in different parts of the plants.
In leaves and stem, exchange of gases takes place through stomata (guarded pores).
2. In stems with bark, exchange of gases take place through the lenticels.
3. Root cells take the air (through diffusion) in the soil spaces.
4. The oxygen in the air is then utilized for breaking down glucose to release energy and carbon dioxide.
5. Respiration in most plants occurs under dark conditions (no light).
DEFINITION
Respiration in plants
1. The plants respire with the help of small pores which are present on the leaf.
2. These pores are known as stomata which help in gaseous exchange.
3. Roots also have small pores which help in absorption.