Which of the following cell organelles is responsible for the maintenance of turgidity of a plant cell ?

Options

A. Mitochondria
B. Vacuoles
C. Plastids
D. Ribosomes

Answer

To determine which cell organelle is responsible for the maintenance of turgidity in a plant cell, we can analyze the options provided:

1. **Mitochondria**:
- Mitochondria are known as the powerhouses of the cell. They are primarily responsible for energy production through the process of cellular respiration, where they convert glucose and oxygen into ATP (adenosine triphosphate).
- **Conclusion**: Mitochondria do not play a role in maintaining turgidity.

2. **Vacuoles**:
- Vacuoles are membrane-bound spaces found in the cytoplasm of plant cells. They are filled with cell sap, which contains water, nutrients, and waste products.
- In plant cells, the central vacuole can occupy a significant portion of the cell's volume (up to 90%). When the vacuole is filled with water, it exerts turgor pressure against the cell wall, which helps maintain the cell's shape and firmness. This pressure is crucial for the plant's structural integrity and overall health.
- **Conclusion**: Vacuoles are responsible for maintaining turgidity in plant cells.

3. **Plastids**:
- Plastids are organelles found in plant cells that are involved in the synthesis and storage of food. Examples include chloroplasts (which contain chlorophyll for photosynthesis), chromoplasts (which store pigments), and leucoplasts (which store starch and other nutrients).
- **Conclusion**: Plastids do not play a direct role in maintaining turgidity.

4. **Ribosomes**:
- Ribosomes are the sites of protein synthesis in the cell. They translate messenger RNA (mRNA) into proteins, which are essential for various cellular functions.
- **Conclusion**: Ribosomes do not contribute to turgidity.

After analyzing all the options, the correct answer is **Vacuoles**. They are the organelles responsible for maintaining the turgidity of plant cells.