Turgidity refers to the state of being swollen or firm, specifically in plant cells. This occurs when a plant cell absorbs a large amount of water, causing the cell to swell and press against its cell wall. This pressure is known as turgor pressure, and it helps maintain the plant's shape and rigidity.
Here are some key points about turgidity:
- Turgidity is essential for plant growth and development. It provides structural support for the plant, allowing it to stand upright and grow taller.
- Turgidity plays a crucial role in plant photosynthesis. By maintaining the shape of leaves, it increases the surface area exposed to sunlight, maximizing the amount of light captured for photosynthesis.
- Turgidity helps regulate the movement of water within the plant. When a plant needs to conserve water, it can reduce its turgidity, causing its leaves to wilt.
- Turgidity is also important for plant reproduction. The swelling of flower buds due to turgidity helps them open and attract pollinators.
Examples of turgidity:
- A ripe tomato is turgid, with its firm flesh and smooth surface.
- The swelling of a raisin in water is a simple example of turgidity. The raisin absorbs water and becomes plump and swollen.
- The rigid stems and leaves of most plants are a result of turgidity.
