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?

Question

The plant withers and dies
The plant goes into hibernation
The plant grows, flowers, and seeds
The plant grows and thrives

Answer 1

The scientist will observe that the plant withers and dies. The stomata are responsible for the exchange of gases, including carbon dioxide and oxygen, between the plant and the environment. By blocking the stomata with petroleum jelly, the plant will not be able to take in carbon dioxide for photosynthesis and release oxygen. As a result, the plant will be deprived of one of its essential requirements for growth and eventually die.