What condition describes when a plant cell is turgid?

Prepare for the BASF Plant Science Certification Exam. Study using flashcards and multiple choice questions; each question includes hints and explanations. Ace your exam effortlessly!

When a plant cell is described as turgid, it refers to a condition where the cell is swollen with water. Turgidity occurs when water enters the central vacuole of the cell, leading to an increase in internal pressure against the cell wall. This pressure helps maintain the structural integrity of the plant, allowing it to stand upright and support its overall health.

Turgid cells are essential for various physiological processes in plants, including nutrient transport and growth. The rigidity created by turgor pressure helps prevent wilting and allows plants to grow toward light and other resources, which is crucial for their survival and efficiency in photosynthesis.

In contrast, the other options describe conditions that do not align with the definition of turgidity. For example, a dehydrated cell would not be swollen and would lack the necessary water to create turgor pressure, while low internal pressure would indicate a lack of water, leading to a wilted or flaccid condition. Similarly, while cell division is a process that can occur in plant growth, it does not specifically refer to the state of being turgid, which is primarily related to water content and pressure within the cell.

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