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Describe the exchange of gases in plants.

1. Plants are stationary so their energy requirement is less and the process of respiration is slower as compared to that of the animals. The process involves exchange of carbon dioxide and oxygen.
2. Plants do not have a special respiratory organ and there is very little transport of gases from one part of the plant to another.
3. They have the source of oxygen in their own body as oxygen is released during the process of photosynthesis.
4. Large intercellular spaces ensure that all the cells are in contact with the air that enters through the stomatal openings.
5. All parts of the plant like root, stem and leaf perform respiration. The gases are exchanged by the process of diffusion.
6. During the day time, photosynthesis and respiration go on simultaneously. The carbon dioxide released during respiration is utilised for photosynthesis and more oxygen is released. At night, when there is no photosynthesis, only respiration goes on and more carbon dioxide is eliminated.