Problem 82 - Objective Biology for NEET

Question

Calcium can affect the (a) Permeability of plasma membrane (b) Hydration of colloids (c) Translocation of carbohydrates and amino acids (d) Development of root

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Calcium can affect the (a) Permeability of plasma membrane, (b) Hydration of colloids, (c) Translocation of carbohydrates and amino acids, and (d) Development of root.

Step 1: Identify role of calcium in permeability of plasma membrane

Looking up online resources or trusted textbooks, one can find that calcium indeed impacts the permeability of plasma membrane in plants. Calcium helps in stabilizing membrane structures and modulating the permeability of plasma membranes.

Step 2: Identify role of calcium in hydration of colloids

Upon further research, it turns out that calcium ions have a role in maintaining the hydration shell around colloids in plant tissues. Calcium ions bind to the negatively charged surfaces of colloids, facilitating water molecules to form a hydration shell around colloids.

Step 3: Identify role of calcium in translocation of carbohydrates and amino acids

Searching further into the roles of calcium in plant physiology, one can find that calcium also plays a role in the translocation of carbohydrates and amino acids. It helps in the activation of enzymes responsible for the translocation of these substances.

Step 4: Identify role of calcium in development of root

By researching on the role of calcium in plants, it comes out that calcium is also important in root development. It is necessary for root hair elongation and overall root growth. Roots with calcium deficiency often show stunted growth.

Key Concepts

Permeability of Plasma Membrane

Plants have special outer layers called plasma membranes. These membranes play a key role in keeping the cells safe by controlling what goes in and out.
Calcium is a crucial player here! It stabilizes these membranes and adjusts how easily substances can pass through.

• It helps the membranes to keep their structure tight and firm.
• Calcium impacts the flow of nutrients and waste, regulating what's permitted to enter and exit.
• Proper calcium levels ensure healthy membrane permeability, which is vital for good plant health.

Without enough calcium, the plasma membrane can become too leaky, impacting the plant's overall well-being.
Think of calcium as a gatekeeper, ensuring stability and appropriate permeability in plant membranes.

Hydration of Colloids

Colloids in plants are like tiny particles that need water to function well. They form gels that help in holding plant tissues together.
Calcium has a special way of keeping colloids well-hydrated. It binds to their surfaces, which attracts water molecules and keeps them around.

• Calcium ions help the colloids to attract and hold water particles, called a hydration shell.
• This hydration is necessary for keeping plant tissues elastic and strong.
• By binding to colloids, calcium ensures that they maintain the right amount of water balance.

If colloids don't have enough calcium, they might dry out. This can lead to less flexible plant parts and can affect how nutrients move through plant tissues.

Translocation of Carbohydrates and Amino Acids

Inside a plant, nutrients need to move from one place to another. This process is called translocation.
Carbohydrates and amino acids are two essential nutrients that travel within plants.
Calcium is crucial here too!

• It activates specific enzymes that are needed for this translocation process.
• With calcium's help, these nutrients can be efficiently transported to where they are needed.
• This movement supports growth and energy storage in plants.

If a plant lacks calcium, it could slow down the movement of these important nutrients. Consequently, plant growth and health can suffer due to the inefficient distribution of carbohydrates and amino acids.

Root Development

The development of roots is fundamental for a plant's growth and nutrient absorption.
Calcium is particularly important for root health and growth.
It aids in the elongation of root hairs, which are tiny extensions that help absorb nutrients and water.

• Calcium is essential for healthy root growth, ensuring roots stretch and expand properly.
• In its absence, roots may not fully develop and appear stunted.
• Healthy root systems enable plants to better access water and nutrients from the soil.

When roots are deprived of calcium, it can result in poor anchorage and diminishes the plant's ability to uptake vital nutrients, ultimately affecting overall plant vitality.