Question

Following are some features of plants.

(i) They lose a lot of water through transpiration.

(ii) Their leaves are always broad and flat.

(iii) They lose very little water through transpiration.

(iv) Their roots grow very deep into the soil.

Which of the combination of the above features are typical of desert plants?

• A. (i) and (ii)
• B. (ii) and (iv)
• C. (ii) and (iii)
• D. (iii) and (iv)

Answer 1

The correct option is D

(iii) and (iv)

The correct option is D.

Explanation of correct option:

Desert plants can survive in harsh arid conditions due to their ability to perform photosynthesis via adaptive modifications.

1. Desert plants also known as succulents, have thick and small leaves modified to spines to counter the transpiration pull.
2. The transpiration pull is the suction created inside the xylem tissues due to the evaporation process under sunlight.
3. Cacti have modified leaves to spines to prevent excessive water loss due to transpiration pull.
4. Some plants have modified Long, deep roots which give them access to groundwater.
5. Some plants also reduce their height to reduce energy loss.
6. Due to less availability of water under arid conditions, some plants enter into a state of dormancy (inactive growth period) until they receive enough moisture to germinate.

Final answer: Desert plants modify and adapt to transpiration pull and grow long deep roots to exist under arid conditions.