A scientist performs an experiment by placing petroleum jelly on under side of plant leaves. This blocks the leaves’ stomata. The plant continues to be watered and is located in a sunny spot. What will the scientist observe?(1 point)ResponsesThe plant grows and thrives.The plant grows and thrives.The plant goes into hibernation.The plant goes into hibernation.The plant grows, flowers, and seeds.The plant grows, flowers, and seeds.The plant withers and dies.
The scientist will observe that the plant withers and dies.
The scientist will observe that the plant withers and dies.
The scientist's observation can be inferred by understanding the role of stomata on plant leaves and the effect of blocking them using petroleum jelly. Stomata are tiny openings on the surface of leaves that allow for the exchange of gases, such as carbon dioxide and oxygen, as well as water vapor during transpiration. By placing petroleum jelly on the underside of plant leaves, the stomata get blocked and their normal functioning is impeded.
Since the plant continues to be watered and is located in a sunny spot, it is receiving water and sunlight, which are essential for its growth and survival. However, without the proper functioning of stomata, the plant will have difficulties in carrying out photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy. This process also involves the intake of carbon dioxide and the release of oxygen.
With blocked stomata, the plant's ability to intake carbon dioxide is compromised, which would ultimately hinder its photosynthesis and overall growth. As a result, the plant is likely to wither and struggle to survive. Therefore, the scientist is more likely to observe that the plant withers and dies.