what do plants breathe

Plants "breathe" by absorbing oxygen for respiration and carbon dioxide for photosynthesis through tiny breathing pores in their leaves. These gases move into and out of a plant by a process called diffusion, from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. Roots also need oxygen, which they absorb from air spaces in the soil, so well-aerated soil is vital for good growth. Plants exchange gases with the atmosphere to function, needing oxygen for respiration and using carbon dioxide for photosynthesis. The oxygen given off by plants is also beneficial for the environment, enriching the water with oxygen and helping to support greater biodiversity. Plants have specialized "mouths" called stomata, which are involved in the exchange of gases. They open and close in response to light, allowing the plant to take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen. In addition to absorbing carbon dioxide for photosynthesis, plants also need to take in oxygen from the air for respiration, which is a part of a long, complex process called respiration. Therefore, plants breathe by taking in carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, just the opposite of animals and humans.