What would most likely happen to a plant if the chloroplasts in its cells became damaged?

• A. The plant would grow faster because damaged chloroplasts increase glucose production.
• B. The plant would produce more oxygen than usual.
• C. The plant would begin to use mitochondria for photosynthesis instead.
• D. The plant would be unable to perform photosynthesis and would eventually die due to lack of energy.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of chloroplasts in plant cells. Chloroplasts are organelles responsible for photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose. Photosynthesis also produces oxygen as a byproduct.
2. Step 2: Recognize the importance of photosynthesis for plant survival. Photosynthesis provides the energy necessary for growth, reproduction, and other cellular functions. Without it, the plant cannot produce glucose, its primary energy source.
3. Step 3: Analyze the consequences of damaged chloroplasts. If chloroplasts are damaged, the plant loses its ability to perform photosynthesis. This means it cannot produce glucose or oxygen, leading to energy depletion.
4. Step 4: Address the incorrect options. Damaged chloroplasts do not increase glucose production, nor do they cause the plant to produce more oxygen. Additionally, mitochondria cannot perform photosynthesis; their role is cellular respiration, which uses glucose to generate ATP.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is: The plant would be unable to perform photosynthesis and would eventually die due to lack of energy. This is because photosynthesis is essential for energy production in plants.