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Water enters the roots of plants by osmosis - Leaving Cert Biology - Question a - 2008
Question a
Water enters the roots of plants by osmosis. Explain what is meant by osmosis. Describe how you demonstrated osmosis as part of your practical activities. Name the... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Water enters the roots of plants by osmosis - Leaving Cert Biology - Question a - 2008
Step 1
What is meant by osmosis?
Answer
Osmosis is defined as the movement of water through a semi-permeable membrane from a region of high osmotic potential (or high concentration of water) to a region of low osmotic potential (or low concentration of water). This process occurs until there is an equal concentration on both sides of the membrane.
Step 2
Describe how you demonstrated osmosis as part of your practical activities.
Answer
In my practical activities, I used a potato to demonstrate osmosis. I cut out small cylindrical pieces of potato and placed them in two different solutions: one in distilled water and one in a concentrated salt solution. Over time, I observed the changes in mass and texture of the potato pieces. Those in distilled water became turgid due to water influx, while those in the salt solution lost mass and became soft due to water loss.
Step 3
Step 4
Mention one way in which the tissue you have named in (iii) is adapted for the transport of water.
Answer
Xylem tissue is adapted for the transport of water due to its tube-like shape, which allows for efficient flow. Additionally, the walls of xylem vessels are lignified and strong, helping to withstand the negative pressure created during transpiration.
Step 5