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Multiple Choice
How do CAM plants minimize water loss during photosynthesis?
A
By storing water in specialized vacuoles within their cells
B
By opening their stomata at night and closing them during the day
C
By using a specialized enzyme to fix carbon dioxide during the day
D
By having a thicker cuticle to prevent water evaporation
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the challenge CAM plants face: In arid environments, water conservation is crucial, and opening stomata during the day can lead to excessive water loss.
Learn about stomata: These are small openings on the surface of leaves that allow gas exchange. In most plants, stomata open during the day to take in carbon dioxide for photosynthesis.
Explore the CAM pathway: CAM (Crassulacean Acid Metabolism) plants have adapted to open their stomata at night when temperatures are cooler and humidity is higher, reducing water loss.
Examine the process at night: At night, CAM plants open their stomata to take in carbon dioxide, which is then fixed into organic acids and stored in vacuoles.
Understand the daytime process: During the day, stomata are closed to conserve water. The stored organic acids are converted back into carbon dioxide for photosynthesis, allowing the plant to photosynthesize without losing water.