Question

What would be the pressure potential of a flaccid cell?

• A. Positive
• B. Negative
• C. Zero
• D. Cannot be determined

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Zero

The correct answer is C.

Explanation of the correct option:

1. Pressure potential refers to the positive pressure developed in a cell due to the entry of water through osmosis.
2. In a turgid cell, the pressure potential is usually positive because water enters into the protoplast that generates turgor pressure.
3. The pressure potential of the flaccid cells is considered to be zero because water and pressure potential with the flaccid cell is equal.

Explanation of incorrect options:

Option A:

When water enters a turgid plant cell and the protoplast pushes up against the cell wall, the pressure potential is often positive.

Option B:

Negative pressure potential occurs when water is pulled through an open system, for example, in the xylem, and this is also known as tension.

Final answer: The pressure potential of the flaccid cell is considered zero.