Question

Which of the following elements is responsible for maintaining turgor in cells ?

• A. Magnesium
• B. Potassium
• C. Sodium
• D. Calcium

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Turgor pressure is essential for maintaining the structure and rigidity of plant cells. It is primarily produced by the osmotic movement of water into the cell, which in turn generates pressure against the cell wall. The key element responsible for maintaining turgor in plant cells is potassium.

Let's break down why potassium plays this crucial role:

1. Role in Osmosis: Potassium ions (K⁺) help regulate the osmotic balance within plant cells. By accumulating in the vacuole, potassium ions maintain a high osmotic concentration that draws water into the cell, thereby generating turgor pressure.
2. Ion Transport: Potassium is actively transported across cell membranes through specific ion channels and pumps. This transport is vital for maintaining the cell's internal osmotic conditions.
3. Physiological Importance: Potassium is involved in many physiological processes, including regulation of stomatal opening and closing, enzyme activation, and protein synthesis—all of which are crucial for plant cell function and growth.

Now, let's rule out the other options:

• Magnesium: While crucial for chlorophyll formation and as a cofactor for many enzymes, magnesium is not primarily involved in maintaining turgor pressure.
• Sodium: Although sodium can be involved in osmotic regulation in some plant types, it is not a primary contributor to turgor pressure in most plants.
• Calcium: Calcium plays a role in cell wall stability and signalling, but it is not primarily responsible for osmotic balance and turgor.

Therefore, among the given options, potassium is indeed the correct answer as it is pivotal in maintaining turgor within cells by regulating osmotic balance.