Xerophytic leaf adaptations and their functions

Steps:

• Identify structure 1 as thick cuticle, which minimizes water evaporation from epidermis.
• Recognize structure 2 as sunken stomata, trapping humid air to reduce transpiration rate.
• Note structure 3 as leaf hairs, creating a moist boundary layer to limit water loss.
• Match choices to correct assignments: 1 only for cuticle function, 2 and 3 for transpiration reduction, 1 and 2 for overall drought resistance.

Why B is correct:

• B accurately assigns functions based on xerophyte biology, where cuticle (1) seals surfaces, while stomata (2) and hairs (3) jointly curb gas exchange losses.

Why the others are wrong:

• A misattributes transpiration roles, ignoring cuticle's primary sealing.
• C duplicates B but errs on "1 only" phrasing, excluding valid overlaps.
• D overemphasizes hairs and stomata, neglecting cuticle's evaporation barrier.

Final answer: B