A Level Biology Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes the pressure resulting from turgor in plant cells?

1. It causes the cell to become plasmolyzed

2. It supports plant structure and rigidity

3. It leads to wilting

4. It reduces nutrient absorption

The correct answer is: It supports plant structure and rigidity

The correct answer highlights the role of turgor pressure in maintaining the structural integrity and rigidity of plant cells. Turgor pressure is generated by the osmotic movement of water into the vacuole of plant cells, creating an internal pressure that pushes the cell membrane against the cell wall. This pressure is essential for keeping the plant cells firm and helps sustain the overall shape of the plant. A plant that has adequate turgor pressure will appear healthy and erect, contributing to its ability to stand upright and grow optimally. Turgor pressure is crucial for various functions in plants, including nutrient transport and growth. When turgor pressure is lost, as seen in other scenarios like wilting, it does not support the plant’s structure. Instead, the plant becomes limp and unstructured. Plasmolysis, on the other hand, occurs when turgor pressure drops significantly, causing the cell membrane to pull away from the cell wall. Therefore, while these conditions relate to turgor pressure, they do not represent its positive role in supporting plant structure and rigidity.