When a plant that is not adapted to salty water is exposed to salty water, it will __________.

• A. thrive
• B. form air tubes
• C. synthesize and release abscisic acid
• D. keep its stomata closed
• E. lose water rather than absorb it

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of osmosis: Osmosis is the movement of water across a semipermeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration.
2. Recognize the effect of salty water on plant cells: When a plant is exposed to salty water, the external environment has a higher solute concentration compared to the inside of the plant cells.
3. Apply the principle of osmosis: Water will move out of the plant cells into the salty environment to balance the solute concentration on both sides of the cell membrane.
4. Identify the physiological response: As water leaves the plant cells, the cells become dehydrated, leading to wilting and potential damage to the plant.
5. Conclude the outcome: The plant will lose water rather than absorb it, as it is not adapted to high salinity conditions, leading to stress and potential harm.