OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

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Why is turgor pressure important for plants?

It prevents loss of nutrients
It provides structural support
It decreases water availability
It affects reproductive capabilities

The correct answer is: It provides structural support

Turgor pressure is crucial for plants primarily because it provides structural support. This pressure is generated when water enters the plant cells, filling the vacuoles and pushing against the cell walls. The rigidity that results from this pushing is essential for maintaining the plant's shape and standing upright, which allows leaves to capture sunlight effectively for photosynthesis. Additionally, this pressure plays a role in the growth of plants, as the cells expand and elongate under turgor pressure, contributing to overall plant development. Without adequate turgor pressure, plants would become wilted and lose their ability to stand tall, ultimately affecting their survival and growth. The other considerations about nutrient loss, water availability, and reproductive capabilities do not directly relate to the primary function of turgor pressure in maintaining structural integrity. While they are all important aspects of plant health, they are not the main role of turgor pressure.