The Cuticle Helps a Plant Conserve Water by ____

Question

The cuticle helps a plant conserve water by ____.  
A) covering the stomata
B) reducing a plant's capacity for photosynthesis
C) absorbing visible light
D) restricting the amount of water a plant's root absorbs
E) restricting the amount of water vapor that diffuses out of aboveground parts

Accepted Answer

The cuticle is a waxy layer that covers the aboveground parts of a plant, such as leaves, and helps reduce water loss by restricting the amount of water vapor that diffuses out of the plant. It does not cover the stomata, which are tiny openings on the surface of leaves that allow for gas exchange, including the intake of carbon dioxide for photosynthesis. The cuticle also does not absorb visible light or restrict water absorption by root.