How does diffusion control the uptake of carbon dioxide and the loss of water from the leaf?

Question: Explain the role of diffusion in controlling the uptake of carbon dioxide and the loss of water from a plant leaf. Answer: Diffusion plays a crucial role in the uptake of CO2 and the loss of water in plant leaves. CO2 is necessary for photosynthesis, and it enters the plant leaves through small pores called stomata, where it moves from an area of higher concentration (the atmosphere) to an area of lower concentration (inside the leaf). Water loss occurs through the same stomata in a process known as transpiration. When the stomata open to allow CO2 to enter the leaf, water vapor can escape into the atmosphere as it also follows its concentration gradient. Plants can control the opening and closing of stomata in response to environmental factors to maintain a balance between CO2 uptake for photosynthesis and water loss through transpiration.