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Multiple Choice
When a field becomes waterlogged, which of the following consequences could it have on the plants?
A
Stomata will remain permanently open, increasing transpiration.
B
Water will move out of the plant cells by osmosis, causing them to shrink.
C
Roots may be unable to absorb oxygen, leading to wilting and root death.
D
Plants will increase their rate of photosynthesis due to excess water.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the problem: A waterlogged field means the soil is saturated with water, leaving little to no air spaces. This can affect plant physiology, particularly the roots, which require oxygen for cellular respiration.
Step 1: Recall that plant roots need oxygen for aerobic respiration. When the soil is waterlogged, oxygen availability decreases because water fills the air spaces in the soil, making it difficult for roots to absorb oxygen.
Step 2: Without sufficient oxygen, the roots cannot perform aerobic respiration efficiently. This leads to a lack of energy production, which is essential for root function and nutrient uptake.
Step 3: As a result of impaired root function, the plant may experience wilting because it cannot absorb water and nutrients effectively. Prolonged oxygen deprivation can lead to root death.
Step 4: Evaluate the provided options. The correct consequence is that roots may be unable to absorb oxygen, leading to wilting and root death. The other options are incorrect because they do not align with the physiological effects of waterlogging on plants.