Several tomato plants are growing in a small garden plot. If soil water potential were to drop significantly on a hot summer afternoon, which of the following would most likely occur?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When soil water potential drops, the plant experiences water stress and responds by reducing water loss through stomatal closure, which results in decreased stomatal apertures to conserve water. This also reduces transpiration, as less water vapor can escape through the stomata. The leaves become less turgid, not more, as water stress causes wilting. The uptake of CO₂ is not directly affected by soil water potential, although reduced photosynthesis due to water stress could indirectly affect CO₂ uptake. The proton gradient is also not directly affected by soil water potential.

Several Tomato Plants Are Growing in a Small Garden Plot