Question

Differentiate between Plasmolysis and Deplasmolysis.

Hint:

Plasmolysis is observed in hypertonic solutions (water moves out), while deplasmolysis occurs in hypotonic solutions (water moves in).

Answer 1

Step 1: Define Plasmolysis.
Plasmolysis is the process in which the plasma membrane of a plant cell pulls away from the cell wall due to water loss when the cell is placed in a hypertonic solution. In this state, water moves out of the cell, causing the cytoplasm to shrink.
Step 2: Define Deplasmolysis.
Deplasmolysis is the reverse process of plasmolysis, where the cell is placed in a hypotonic solution, causing water to move into the cell. This results in the plasma membrane pushing against the cell wall as the cell becomes turgid again.
Step 3: Comparison.
- Plasmolysis occurs when the plant cell loses water, leading to shrinkage of the cytoplasm.
- Deplasmolysis occurs when the plant cell gains water, causing the cytoplasm to expand and the plasma membrane to press against the cell wall.

Step 4: Key Difference.
The key difference between plasmolysis and deplasmolysis is the direction of water movement: plasmolysis involves water loss, while deplasmolysis involves water gain.