Introduction

Plants are essential for our survival as they provide us with oxygen, food, and other resources. In order for plants to survive and thrive, they need water. In this article, we will explore the reasons why plants need water and the effects of water on plants.

Transportation of Nutrients

One of the primary reasons why plants need water is for the transportation of nutrients. Water acts as a transport medium for minerals and other nutrients that are needed for the growth and development of plants. Water dissolves minerals and nutrients from the soil and carries them up through the roots and into the stem and leaves of the plant. Without water, plants would not be able to access these essential nutrients.

Moreover, water helps plants to move the nutrients through the plant's vascular system, which is made up of xylem and phloem. The xylem is responsible for transporting water and minerals from the roots to the leaves while the phloem moves sugars and other nutrients around the plant. Water helps the plant to maintain a steady flow of these nutrients throughout the plant's entire system, keeping it healthy and strong.

Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants create food using carbon dioxide, sunlight, and water. Water is a necessary ingredient in this process as it provides the hydrogen ions needed to create energy during photosynthesis. Without water, the plant cannot produce energy and therefore cannot continue to survive.

In addition to providing the hydrogen ions needed for photosynthesis, water also helps to regulate the temperature of the plant during this process. As the water evaporates from the leaves, it creates a cooling effect that helps to regulate the temperature of the plant. This, in turn, helps the plant to maintain a suitable environment for photosynthesis.

Cell Turgor

Water is also essential for maintaining cell turgor, which is the stiffness or rigidity of a plant cell. Plant cells are surrounded by a cell wall, which helps to provide support and structure to the plant. When the cell is filled with water, it becomes turgid or rigid, which helps to keep the plant upright and sturdy. Without water, the plant cells would become flaccid or limp, causing the plant to wilt and eventually die.

Furthermore, turgor pressure also helps plants to store energy. Plants use turgor pressure to store energy in their cells, which they can later use for growth and other metabolic processes. This energy storage is essential for the survival and growth of the plant.

Conclusion

In conclusion, water is an essential component for the survival and growth of plants. It helps to transport necessary nutrients, is required for photosynthesis, regulates the temperature of the plant, and helps to maintain cell turgor. Without water, plants would not be able to grow, flourish, and provide us with the resources that we need for our survival.