Correct Option
The correct option is (c) 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
Leaves are the primary lateral appendages of the stem, specialized for photosynthesis. Their physiological functions include the synthesis of organic food, gas exchange, and the regulation of water movement through transpiration.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: Transpiration is the process of water loss in the form of water vapor from the aerial parts of the plant, primarily the leaves. Plants do not absorb a significant amount of water from the atmosphere through leaves; instead, water absorption is the primary function of the root system (specifically root hairs) from the soil.
- Statement 2 is Correct: The surface of leaves, particularly the underside in dicots, contains numerous microscopic pores known as stomata. These pores are guarded by specialized cells called guard cells and are responsible for the exchange of gases (oxygen and carbon dioxide) between the plant and the atmosphere.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Leaves are the primary site of photosynthesis, the process by which plants synthesize food (glucose) using sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water. This occurs in the mesophyll cells which are rich in chloroplasts containing the pigment chlorophyll.
Key Takeaway: Roots are responsible for water absorption, while leaves function as the site for transpiration (water loss), gas exchange (via stomata), and photosynthesis (food production).