Which process best describes the movement of water from the spongy mesophyll cells to the atmosphere in plants?

• A. Transpiration
• B. Photosynthesis
• C. Active transport
• D. Respiration

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the key processes involved in plant water movement: Transpiration, Photosynthesis, Active Transport, and Respiration. Each term represents a distinct biological process.
2. Recall that transpiration is the process by which water evaporates from the surfaces of plant leaves, primarily through stomata, and moves into the atmosphere. This is driven by differences in water potential and is a passive process.
3. Consider the role of spongy mesophyll cells. These cells are located in the leaf and contain spaces that allow for gas exchange and water vapor movement. Water evaporates from these cells into the air spaces within the leaf.
4. Recognize that the movement of water from the spongy mesophyll cells to the atmosphere occurs through the stomata, which are small openings on the leaf surface. This process is part of transpiration.
5. Eliminate the other options: Photosynthesis involves the conversion of light energy into chemical energy, Active transport requires energy to move substances against a concentration gradient, and Respiration is the process of breaking down glucose to release energy. None of these directly describe the movement of water to the atmosphere.