What are the cells found on either side of a stomata that control gas exchange in leaves?

The cells found on either side of a stomata that control gas exchange in leaves are indeed guard cells. These specialized cells are responsible for the opening and closing of the stomatal pores, which allow for the exchange of gases such as carbon dioxide and oxygen between the leaf and the atmosphere.

Guard cells are structured to respond to environmental conditions such as light, humidity, and internal water levels. When the plant has sufficient water, the guard cells take up water and swell, causing the stomata to open. Conversely, when water is scarce, the guard cells lose water and shrink, leading to the closure of the stomata. This regulation is crucial for maintaining homeostasis within the plant and optimizing photosynthesis while minimizing water loss.

In contrast, chloroplasts are the organelles within plant cells that carry out photosynthesis but do not directly control the opening and closing of stomata. Stomatal pores are the actual openings created by the guard cells, rather than the cells themselves. Mesophyll cells are the sites where photosynthesis occurs and play a role in gas exchange but are not involved in the regulation of the stomatal openings. Thus, guard cells are the key players in managing gas exchange in conjunction with stomatal pores.