Multiple Choice
What primarily drives the flow of water through the xylem in plants?
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34. Vascular Plant Transport
Water Potential
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Which of the following best describes the cells of a wilted plant in terms of water potential?
A
The cells have a high water potential and are turgid.
B
The cells have a low water potential and are plasmolyzed.
C
The cells have equal water potential inside and outside, maintaining equilibrium.
D
The cells have a high solute potential and are fully hydrated.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of water potential: Water potential is a measure of the potential energy in water, influencing the movement of water through plant cells. It is affected by solute concentration and pressure.
Recognize the condition of a wilted plant: A wilted plant typically has lost turgor pressure, meaning its cells are not full of water and are likely plasmolyzed, which indicates low water potential.
Identify the relationship between solute concentration and water potential: High solute concentration inside the cell leads to low water potential, causing water to move out of the cell, resulting in plasmolysis.
Consider the equilibrium scenario: If the water potential inside and outside the cells were equal, the plant would not be wilted, as there would be no net movement of water.
Evaluate the hydration status: Fully hydrated cells would have high water potential and be turgid, which is not the case for wilted plants.
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