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 powerhouse of the cell because they generate ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the energy currency of the cell. They are not involved in maintaining turgidity.
- **Conclusion**: Mitochondria do not maintain turgidity.

2. **Vacuoles**:
- Vacuoles are large, membrane-bound organelles found in plant cells. They are primarily responsible for storing substances, including water.
- In plant cells, vacuoles can occupy up to 90% of the cell's volume. When water enters the vacuole, it creates internal pressure against the cell wall, which helps maintain turgidity.
- **Conclusion**: Vacuoles are responsible for maintaining turgidity in plant cells.

3. **Plastids**:
- Plastids, such as chloroplasts, are involved in the synthesis and storage of food. They contain pigments and play a role in photosynthesis. However, they do not play a direct role in maintaining turgidity.
- **Conclusion**: Plastids do not maintain turgidity.

4. **Ribosomes**:
- Ribosomes are involved in protein synthesis. They do not have any role in maintaining the turgidity of plant cells.
- **Conclusion**: Ribosomes do not maintain turgidity.

Based on the analysis of the options, the correct answer is **Vacuoles (Option B)**, as they are responsible for maintaining the turgidity of plant cells by storing water and exerting pressure against the cell wall.