A scientist performs an experiment by placing petroleum jelly on under side of plant leaves. This blocks the leaves’ stomata. The plant continues to be watered and is located in a sunny spot. What will the scientist observe?(1 point)

Responses

The plant grows, flowers, and seeds.

The plant goes into hibernation.

The plant grows and thrives.

The plant withers and dies.

1 answer

The most likely observation the scientist would make is: The plant withers and dies.

Blocking the stomata with petroleum jelly prevents the plant from undergoing gas exchange effectively, which is crucial for processes like photosynthesis and transpiration. Without the ability to take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen, and due to reduced transpiration affecting water uptake, the plant would struggle to survive.