Plants release carbon dioxide (CO2) during both day and night. However, their rates of respiration and photosynthesis vary depending on the time of day and environmental conditions.
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During the day, when sunlight is available, plants primarily carry out photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is a process where plants use sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to produce glucose (a form of sugar) and oxygen. In this process, plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and release oxygen as a byproduct. This is why plants are often referred to as the “lungs of the Earth” as they help to replenish the oxygen levels in the air.
At night, plants undergo a process called cellular respiration. Just like other living organisms, plants need energy to survive, grow, and reproduce. During respiration, plants break down the stored glucose produced during photosynthesis and convert it into energy to fuel cellular activities. As a result of this process, plants release carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.
While the overall amount of oxygen released by plants during photosynthesis is greater than the carbon dioxide released during respiration, it is important to note that both processes occur simultaneously. The rates of photosynthesis and respiration can be influenced by various factors such as light intensity, temperature, and plant species.
In conclusion, plants release carbon dioxide at night as a result of the process of cellular respiration. This helps to balance the exchange of gases in the atmosphere and is a normal part of a plant’s metabolic activities.