/*! This file is auto-generated */ .wp-block-button__link{color:#fff;background-color:#32373c;border-radius:9999px;box-shadow:none;text-decoration:none;padding:calc(.667em + 2px) calc(1.333em + 2px);font-size:1.125em}.wp-block-file__button{background:#32373c;color:#fff;text-decoration:none} Problem 87 A florist decided to paint the l... [FREE SOLUTION] | 91Ó°ÊÓ

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A florist decided to paint the leaves of poinsettia with a gold paint to embellish them. The plant soon wilted and the leaves drooped. What explains this damage? a. The paint clogged the stomata. Without photosynthesis, the plant could not pull water from the soil. b. The paint clogged the stomata. Without transpiration, the plant could not pull water from the soil. c. The paint clogged the hydathodes. Without transpiration, the plant could not pull water from the soil. d. The paint clogged the stomata. Without guttation, the plant could not pull water from the soil.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer is b: The paint clogged the stomata. Without transpiration, the plant could not pull water from the soil.

Step by step solution

01

- Understanding Stomata

The stomata are tiny openings on the leaves of plants that allow for gas exchange, primarily the intake of carbon dioxide for photosynthesis and the release of oxygen. In addition to this, the stomata are essential for the process of transpiration.
02

- Role of Transpiration

Transpiration is the process by which moisture is carried through plants from roots to small pores on the underside of leaves, where it changes to vapor and is released to the atmosphere. This process helps in pulling water and nutrients from the soil through the plant.
03

- Effect of Paint on Stomata

When the leaves are coated with paint, the stomata get clogged. This prevents the plant from performing transpiration effectively. Without transpiration, the plant cannot pull water and nutrients from the soil, leading to wilting and drooping of leaves.
04

- Eliminating Incorrect Options

Option c mentions hydathodes and guttation, which are different processes and not primarily involved in pulling water from the soil in response to transpiration. This allows for options a, b, and d to be considered.
05

- Final Answer

Option a discusses photosynthesis being hindered, but photosynthesis alone does not explain the inability to pull water from the soil. This leaves option b, which correctly states that clogged stomata prevent transpiration and thus the plant suffers from lack of water uptake.

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Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

Understanding Stomata Function
Stomata are small pores on the surface of leaves and stems of most plants. They play a critical role in gas exchange by allowing carbon dioxide (COâ‚‚) to enter the leaf for photosynthesis and oxygen (Oâ‚‚) to exit as a by-product. Additionally, stomata regulate water vapor release through a process called transpiration. Each stoma is controlled by guard cells that open and close the pore depending on environmental conditions.
When the stomata are clogged, as in the case of painting the leaf, the plant cannot perform necessary gas exchange, leading to disrupted photosynthesis and hindered transpiration. Consequently, the plant suffers, as visible in the wilting and drooping poinsettia leaves.
Importance of Transpiration
Transpiration is a process where water absorbed by plant roots is transported through the plant and eventually evaporates from tiny pores called stomata. This process has multiple essential functions, including:
  • Cooling the plant as water evaporates from the leaf surface.
  • Creating a negative pressure that helps pull water and nutrients upward from the roots through the xylem.
  • Facilitating the entry of necessary minerals and nutrients dissolved in water.
When the stomata are blocked, like when a leaf is painted, transpiration cannot occur effectively. This blockage interrupts the water and nutrient uptake process and compromises the plant's health, leading to dehydration and wilting.
Exploring Plant Physiology
Plant physiology involves studying various functions and processes critical for plant health and growth. This includes the study of photosynthesis, respiration, nutrient transport, and water relations.
One significant aspect is understanding how plants manage water uptake and loss. Water is crucial for photosynthesis, transporting nutrients, and maintaining turgor pressure, which keeps plant tissues firm. Stomata are vital in regulating water loss through transpiration, balancing water availability with gas exchange needs.
When external factors like paint disrupt these physiological processes by clogging stomata, the plant cannot maintain its internal balance. This disruption leads to poor nutrient uptake, hindered growth, and visible symptoms such as wilting. By understanding plant physiology, we appreciate how interconnected these processes are and why it's crucial to maintain optimal conditions for plant health.

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