A scientists 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 scientists observe?
Options:
The plant grows and thrives
The plant goes into hibernation
The plant withers and dies
The plant grows, flowers, and seeds
The correct answer is:
The plant withers and dies.
Stomata are small openings on the surface of leaves that allow for the exchange of gases (such as oxygen and carbon dioxide) and the release of water through transpiration. By blocking the stomata with petroleum jelly, the plant will not be able to release water vapor, and thus, transpiration will be hindered. As a result, the plant will be unable to regulate its temperature, uptake nutrients, and carry out the necessary metabolic processes. The lack of transpiration can cause the plant to dehydrate and ultimately wither and die.