Certified Professional Horticulturist (CPH) Practice Exam

Which of the following functions are not performed by leaves?

1. Transpiration

2. Photosynthesis

3. Balancing the plant

4. Producing sugars and carbohydrates

The correct answer is: Balancing the plant

Leaves play a crucial role in the life of a plant, primarily through processes such as transpiration, photosynthesis, and the production of sugars and carbohydrates. Transpiration is the process by which water vapor is emitted from the plant, mainly through small openings called stomata found on the leaf's surface. This not only helps in cooling the plant but also facilitates the uptake of nutrients from the soil by creating a negative pressure that draws water up from the roots. Photosynthesis occurs in the chloroplasts of leaf cells, where sunlight is converted into chemical energy. During this process, leaves utilize carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and water from the soil to produce glucose and oxygen, which are vital for the plant's growth and energy needs. The production of sugars and carbohydrates is directly related to photosynthesis. The glucose generated during this process is crucial for energy, growth, and storage, allowing the plant to thrive. Balancing the plant, however, is not a function performed specifically by the leaves. While leaves contribute to the overall health and function of the plant through transpiration and photosynthesis, balancing the plant typically refers to the plant’s root systems and overall structure, which are responsible for anchoring the plant and maintaining stability. Therefore, the correct identification