[Campbell Biology P.823] The periderm is mostly impermeable to water and gases due to suberi... | Practice Question

The periderm is mostly impermeable to water and gases due to suberin. How do living cells in the interior tissues of woody stems or roots, surrounded by this protective layer, primarily facilitate gas exchange with the outside air?

  • A: Through stomata, which are abundant on woody stems.
  • B: Via direct diffusion across the suberin layer, which is porous enough for gas exchange.
  • C: Through specialized structures called lenticels, which allow more space between cork cells.
  • D: By relying solely on anaerobic respiration for energy production.

Explanation

The text explains: "Dotting the periderm are small, raised areas called lenticels, in which there is more space between cork cells, enabling living cells within a woody stem or root to exchange gases with the outside air."