When a plant is exposed to uneven watering, certain parts may grow faster than others, causing the plant to bend. Identify the best explanation for this phenomenon.

Question

1 Answer

Chaitra H A · Answer 1 · 2024-12-30T12:02:36+0000

Correct Answer: (4) Growth hormones accumulate in wetter side to promote cell elongation

The phenomenon described is hydrotropism, where plants respond to uneven moisture distribution.
Growth hormones like auxins accumulate more on the wetter side of the plant. Auxins promote cell elongation on this side, leading to bending towards the water source.
This behavior helps the plant optimize water absorption and growth.

Roots grow towards water sources: While roots exhibit hydrotropism, the question is about the bending of the plant, not root growth.
Water stimulates growth in the drier side: This is incorrect because the growth is stimulated in the wetter side due to hormone accumulation.
The plant requires water for photosynthesis: While true, it does not explain the bending phenomenon.

(4) Growth hormones accumulate in wetter side to promote cell elongation

For a detailed understanding, you can refer to the following sources:

Auxin and Tropisms: This chapter discusses the role of auxin in various plant tropisms, including hydrotropism, and how it influences differential cell elongation.
Springer Link
Hydrotropism: how roots search for water: This review article delves into the mechanisms of hydrotropism, highlighting the involvement of auxin and other hormones in root growth towards water.
Oxford Academic
Hydrotropism: The Wikipedia page provides an overview of hydrotropism, discussing recent research on the role of auxin and other factors in this process.
Wikipedia