If a plant does not have enough water, which of the following is most likely to occur as a result of changes in water potential?

• A. The plant cells will swell and burst due to increased water uptake.
• B. The plant will increase its rate of photosynthesis due to higher water availability.
• C. The plant cells will lose turgor pressure and may become plasmolyzed.
• D. The water potential inside the plant cells will increase, causing water to enter the cells.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of water potential: Water potential is a measure of the potential energy of water in a system, and it determines the direction of water movement. Water moves from areas of higher water potential to areas of lower water potential.
2. Recognize the role of turgor pressure: Turgor pressure is the pressure exerted by water inside the plant cell against the cell wall. It is essential for maintaining the plant's structure and rigidity.
3. Analyze the scenario of water scarcity: When a plant does not have enough water, the water potential outside the plant cells becomes lower than inside the cells. This causes water to move out of the cells by osmosis.
4. Understand plasmolysis: As water leaves the plant cells, the cells lose turgor pressure and may become plasmolyzed. Plasmolysis occurs when the cell membrane pulls away from the cell wall due to water loss.
5. Eliminate incorrect options: The plant cells will not swell and burst because water is leaving the cells, not entering. Photosynthesis will decrease, not increase, due to reduced water availability. The water potential inside the cells will decrease, not increase, as water exits the cells.