Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Hi Science Expert,

I am conducting a group science project through Innovation Nation and we had a couple of questions regarding the basis of our project. In one experiment we are depicting how osmosis works in plant cells by putting 1 slice of potato in a glass of pure water and the other in a glass of salt water to show how a plant swells and wilts in the presence and absence of water. What our group wants to know is: Do plants cells have an advantage over animal cells in the sense that turgor pressure allows plant cells to become rigid when necessary whereas animal cells generally keep a stable shape? Thank you.

Hello,
I think it would be helpful if you define your question a little further. Both plant and animal cells have advantages and disadvantages depending on the environment they are in. Are you referring to a environment of high salinity only?

Katie

Hi Katie,

Thank you for replying back so soon! And in the case of our experiment, yes, we were wondering what type of cell would be better suited for an environment of high salinity? But, now that you mention it, we are also wondering if turgor pressure can have an adverse affect on plant cells ultimately harming them (other than the case of a plant wilting from lack of water)? Also, is it possible for a plant to revive itself to a sustainable state after losing water and wilting? Thanks again for all the help!

Hi Natallierose,

The animal cells do not keep a solid shape, either. Animals have a lot of flexibility like plants do. I think plant cells, SOME plant cells are better suited to high salt - like those that live In the ocean, like green algae. Actually there are animals there, too, so those animals and their cells may be equally well suited for their environment.

Yes, some plants can revive themselves after completely wilting - it really depends on the plant species and its tolerance level for wilting. You could look up drought resistant plants or household plants requiring little water to find some examples.

Sounds like a good research project! Goodluck!

Tonya