Question

Which of the following is a reversible phenomenon?

(a) Plasmolysis

(b) Turgidity

(c) Flaccidity

(d) Imbibition

I had been asked this question during an interview.

This is a very interesting question from Plant-Water Relations-2 in chapter Transport in Plants of Biology – Class 11

Answer 1

Correct option is (a) Plasmolysis

The explanation is: Only plasmolysis is a reversible phenomenon as the cell can become normal when shifted to hypotonic solution. When the cell is already in hypotonic solution it swells and bursts, therefore, cannot be reversed. Flaccid cell is an ideal cell where there is continuous flow of water in and out of the cell. Imbibition aids in germination which is again a non-reversible process.