What Happens when Plant Cells Freeze?
Living tissue is composed mainly of tiny cells. These cells contain a lot of water and other substances dissolved in the water. When vegetable material is placed in a very cold environment the water in the cells rapidly freezes. The water then expands. A plant cell has very little “give,” or resiliency. This is because plant cells have a unique structure. Plants don’t have skeletons in the way many animals do. For structural support, plant cells have rigid cell walls. What is it that makes some plant leaves die when they freeze while others don’t? Try This! First, what happens to freezing plant cells? Fill a plastic container to the very top with water and place the cover on. Place the sealed container into a plastic bag and seal the bag well. Put the whole package into the freezer. Check on the container a day or two later. PREDICT WHAT WILL HAPPEN AND EXPLAIN WHY YOU THINK SO. Now try comparing 2 different kinds of leaves when they freeze. Place some tulip leaves and some lettuce lea
