A plant cell is placed in a hypertonic solution. Which physical phenomenon occurs, and what is the correct term for it?
APlasmolysis - protoplasm shrinks away from cell wall
BDeplasmolysis - cell regains water
CTurgor pressure increases
DCell wall becomes permeable
Correct Answer:
A. Plasmolysis - protoplasm shrinks away from cell wall
Explanation:
In hypertonic solutions, water moves out of the cell due to osmosis, causing protoplasm to shrink away from the cell wall - this is plasmolysis. This is a fundamental osmotic principle tested in SSC/Railway exams.
The phenomenon of senescence in plants is primarily controlled by which plant hormone?
AAuxin
BGibberellin
CEthylene
DCytokinin
Correct Answer:
C. Ethylene
Explanation:
Ethylene is the senescence hormone that promotes leaf yellowing, abscission, and fruit ripening. Cytokinins antagonize ethylene effects. This hormone physiology is important for understanding plant development.
Which of the following statements about stomata is correct?
AGuard cells contain more chloroplasts than mesophyll cells
BStomata close at night to conserve water
CGuard cells lack mitochondria
DStomatal opening is independent of light
Correct Answer:
B. Stomata close at night to conserve water
Explanation:
Stomata generally close at night (except CAM plants) to reduce transpiration. Guard cells are rich in mitochondria and chloroplasts to provide ATP and regulate osmotic potential. This circadian regulation is fundamental to plant physiology.