AP bio question?

Question

how would a lack of gravity affect normal plant growth?

Propose mechanism to overcome the problems associated with a lack of gravity

thanks in advance

Answer 1

I think you would have a problem with tropism.  The plant's roots and stems might not grow parallel with each other.  Gravity is what causes the roots to grow downwards and the rest of the plant to grow upwards.  Without gravity, i don't think the roots would necessairly grown downwards.  As for transpiration and such, that is driven by evaporation, so that should not be affected...hope this helps...

Answer 2

A lack of gravity would cause a plant not to grow because lack of gravity would negatively affect capillary action (the sucking up action of water).  Since plants use capillary action for water intake, in a place with no gravity, it cannot benefit from water for growth.

I'd say to make a hypotonic water solution to increase the pressure in the plant cells so that it will increase water intake.

I could be wrong...I haven't taken Bio in years and I switched to Communications major.