Plant Cell Chemistry

Questions and Answers

What are the physiological importance of water in plant growth?

Water is essential for successful plant growth, involving photosynthesis, synthesis of energetic composites, and new tissue.

What are the properties of water molecules mentioned in the text?

Water molecules are polar, have high specific heat, exist in solid, gas, and liquid states, have the ability to absorb and adsorb, have specific vaporizing and freezing points, act as a universal solvent, exhibit cohesion and adhesion, and have factors affecting the chemical potential.

How does water contribute to the process of photosynthesis in plants?

Water is one of the reactants in photosynthesis, reacting with carbon dioxide under the influence of sunlight to generate glucose and oxygen.

What role does water play in the transportation of minerals in plants?

<p>Water is used to transport minerals around the plant.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the influence of water restriction on losses in the production and distribution of vegetation on the terrestrial surface?

<p>The influence of water restriction on losses in the production and distribution of vegetation on the terrestrial surface is significantly larger than all other losses combined, caused by biotic and abiotic factors combined.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Physiological Importance of Water in Plant Growth

Water is essential for plant growth and survival, making up 80-90% of a plant's tissues
Water helps maintain turgor pressure, keeping plants upright and supporting their structure
It plays a crucial role in cell expansion and division, allowing plants to grow and develop

Properties of Water Molecules

Water molecules (H2O) have a polar nature, with a slightly positive charge on hydrogen atoms and a negative charge on oxygen
This polarity allows water to dissolve and transport nutrients and minerals throughout the plant
Water's high surface tension and cohesion properties help it flow upwards through the xylem, defying gravity

Water's Role in Photosynthesis

Water is the reactant that provides hydrogen atoms, which are essential for the production of glucose during photosynthesis
Light energy from the sun is used to split water molecules, releasing oxygen and hydrogen ions
Hydrogen ions are used to convert CO2 into glucose, releasing oxygen as a byproduct

Water's Role in Mineral Transportation

Water helps dissolve and transport minerals and nutrients from the soil to the roots, stems, and leaves
It facilitates the uptake of essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, necessary for plant growth
Water's role in transporting minerals helps maintain healthy plant function and development

Impact of Water Restriction on Vegetation

Water restriction or drought can lead to significant losses in plant productivity and distribution on the terrestrial surface
Limited water availability can cause plants to become stressed, reducing their growth rates and increasing mortality
Water scarcity can alter ecosystem dynamics, having a cascading effect on the entire food chain and ecosystem functioning