[Campbell Biology P.892] Which of the following statements accurately describes the adaptati... | Practice Question

Which of the following statements accurately describes the adaptations observed during etiolation and the changes occurring during de-etiolation in a potato plant?

  • A: Etiolation leads to sturdy stems and broad green leaves, while de-etiolation involves stem elongation and pale coloration.
  • B: Etiolation promotes stem elongation to reach light, whereas de-etiolation results in chlorophyll production and leaf expansion.
  • C: Both etiolation and de-etiolation are processes that primarily aim to conserve water in dry environments.
  • D: Etiolation occurs in response to light, and de-etiolation is triggered by darkness.

Explanation

Etiolation is an adaptive response to darkness, where a plant dedicates resources to rapid stem elongation to reach light, resulting in pale, spindly shoots and unexpanded leaves. De-etiolation, or greening, is triggered by light and involves the slowing of stem elongation, expansion of leaves, development of a robust root system, and production of chlorophyll, making the plant capable of photosynthesis.