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)
Responses
The plant grows and thrives.
The plant grows, flowers, and seeds.
The plant goes into hibernation.
The plant withers and dies.
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 reason for this observation can be explained by understanding the role of stomata in plant physiology. Stomata are tiny openings on the surface of plant leaves that regulate the exchange of gases, such as carbon dioxide and oxygen, as well as the release of water vapor through transpiration.
When petroleum jelly is applied to the underside of plant leaves, it creates a physical barrier that blocks these stomata. As a result, the plant is unable to efficiently carry out essential processes like photosynthesis and transpiration. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy, and transpiration helps in the transport of water and nutrients throughout the plant.
Without access to carbon dioxide and the ability to release water vapor, the plant's ability to produce energy is severely impacted, leading to a lack of new growth and eventually causing the plant to wither and die. Therefore, the correct answer is "The plant withers and dies" in this particular experiment.