Question

Explain an activity to demonstrate plasmolysis in Rheo leaf.

Answer 1

Definition of plasmolysis

1. The process of shrinkage or contraction of the cell contents away from the cell wall is when a living plant cell loses water through osmosis.

Procedure

Step 1– Prepare a slide of Rhoeo leaf in water on a slide.

Step 2– Notice the small green granules on the surface of the leaf under the high-power microscope.

Step 3 – Put a strong solution of sugar or salt on the mounted leaf on the slide.

Step 4– Wait for a minute and observe under a microscope.

Step 5- Now boil the Rhoeo leaves for a few minutes.

Step 6– Mount one leaf on a slide and observe it under a microscope.

Step 7– Put a strong solution of sugar or salt on the mounted leaf on the slide.

Step 8– Wait for a minute and observe it again.

Observations

1. Chloroplasts are seen as small green granules.
2. Chloroplasts contain a green-colored pigment called chlorophyll.
3. Cells become plasmolyzed in the presence of a strong sugar solution so can be observed.
4. Boiling will kill the cells.
5. The cell contents shrink away from the cell wall.
6. The process of plasmolysis is not seen in plant cells that were boiled.

Conclusion

1. Only living cells are able to absorb water by osmosis. Dead cells do not show the process of osmosis.