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Multiple Choice
Which property of large, circular lily pads allows them to float on the water's surface?
A
Their roots anchor them tightly to the pond bottom, preventing sinking.
B
They actively pump water out of their cells to stay afloat.
C
Their thick waxy coating makes them denser than water.
D
They have air-filled spaces within their tissues that increase buoyancy.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of buoyancy: Buoyancy is the ability of an object to float in a fluid, such as water, due to the upward force exerted by the fluid. For plants like lily pads, structural adaptations can enhance buoyancy.
Examine the structure of lily pads: Large, circular lily pads have specialized tissues that contain air-filled spaces. These spaces reduce the overall density of the plant, making it less dense than water and allowing it to float.
Rule out incorrect options: Analyze the other choices provided. Roots anchoring the plant to the pond bottom do not contribute to floating. Actively pumping water out of cells is not a mechanism used by lily pads. A thick waxy coating does not make the plant denser than water; instead, it helps repel water but does not directly affect buoyancy.
Focus on the correct property: The presence of air-filled spaces within the tissues is the key adaptation that increases buoyancy. These spaces trap air, which is less dense than water, helping the lily pad stay afloat.
Relate this property to survival: Floating on the water's surface allows lily pads to access sunlight for photosynthesis and provides a stable platform for gas exchange, which are essential for their growth and reproduction.