It is advantageous to use Hydrilla to demonstrate photosynthesis than land plants as

Options

A. it respires slowly
B. it does not transpire
C. it photosynthesizes rapidly
D. oxygen bubbles can be collected over water

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Photosynthesis**: Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen, using sunlight as energy. This process occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells.

2. **Role of Water in Photosynthesis**: During photosynthesis, water undergoes photolysis (splitting of water molecules) to release oxygen. This oxygen is a by-product of the process.

3. **Comparison of Aquatic and Terrestrial Plants**: In terrestrial plants, the oxygen produced during photosynthesis is released into the atmosphere. This makes it difficult to collect and measure the oxygen directly. In contrast, aquatic plants like Hydrilla release oxygen into the water, which can be easily collected.

4. **Experimental Setup with Hydrilla**: To demonstrate photosynthesis using Hydrilla, you can set up an experiment:
- Fill a beaker with water and place a sprig of Hydrilla in it.
- Invert a funnel over the Hydrilla and place an inverted test tube over the funnel.
- Expose the setup to sunlight.

5. **Observing Oxygen Production**: As photosynthesis occurs, oxygen bubbles will form and rise to the top of the test tube. This allows for easy collection of the oxygen gas.

6. **Testing the Collected Gas**: To confirm that the gas collected is indeed oxygen, you can insert a glowing splint into the test tube. If the splint reignites, it indicates the presence of oxygen.

7. **Conclusion**: The main advantage of using Hydrilla to demonstrate photosynthesis is that oxygen bubbles can be collected over water (Option D). This is not feasible with terrestrial plants, where oxygen disperses into the atmosphere.

**Final Answer**: It is advantageous to use Hydrilla to demonstrate photosynthesis than land plants because oxygen bubbles can be collected over water (Option D).

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