D2.3.6 Effects of water movement on cells with a cell wall

What is the default state of plant cells in a hypotonic environment?

Turgor pressure is the default state, because water enters the cell and pushes against the cell wall.

What happens to a plant cell placed in a hypotonic solution?

Water enters by osmosis, the vacuole expands, and the cytoplasm pushes against the cell wall.

What is turgor pressure?

The pressure of the cell contents pushing against the cell wall.

Why is turgor pressure important for plants?

It provides support, helps growth, and controls processes like opening and closing stomata.

What happens to a plant cell in a hypertonic solution?

Water leaves the cell, the vacuole shrinks, and the cytoplasm pulls away from the cell wall.

What is the process called when the cytoplasm pulls away from the cell wall?

Plasmolysis.

What are the consequences of plasmolysis?

The cell becomes flaccid, the membrane detaches from the wall, and the cell may wilt or die.

Why does plasmolysis occur in a hypertonic solution?

Water potential outside is lower, so water leaves the cell to balance solute levels.

What is the difference between turgor pressure and plasmolysis?

Turgor pressure happens in a hypotonic environment (water enters); plasmolysis happens in a hypertonic environment (water leaves).

Can plasmolysis be reversed?

It is often irreversible and can cause cell death unless rehydrated quickly.

What role does the cell wall play in turgor pressure?

It resists expansion and stops the cell from bursting.

How does turgor pressure aid in plant growth?

It stretches the cell wall, allowing the cell to grow.

What is the effect of turgor pressure on a plant cell?

The cell becomes turgid and firm.

What happens to the plasma membrane during plasmolysis?

It pulls away from the cell wall.

What is the relationship between turgor pressure and plant structure?

Turgor pressure keeps cells firm and helps plants stay upright.

How does turgor pressure affect stomata?

It helps open and close stomata for gas exchange and transpiration.