Final answer:
Yes, water loss is the major problem affecting cuttings because cuttings lack a developed root system to take up water and are susceptible to drying out. The movement of water from the soil to the plant is driven by water potential, and plants have adaptations to reduce water loss, such as closing stomata during drought.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement "Water loss is the major problem affecting cuttings?" can be evaluated as true. When propagating plants through cuttings, maintaining adequate water levels is crucial as cuttings are especially prone to drying out without an established root system. The water potential in the soil and the cutting must encourage the movement of water into the plant to prevent dehydration.
Water potential indeed plays a significant role in the movement of water from the soil to the plant. Dry soil typically has a lower water potential than wet soil, and as such, water will move towards the lower potential, effectively moving from the soil to the plant. However, under drought conditions, plants adapt by closing their stomata to conserve water, and in extreme cases, they may shed leaves to reduce water loss.
Adaptations such as having waxy cuticles with sunken stomata, as seen in succulents like aloes and agaves, are important for reducing water loss. In environments with high humidity, evaporation rates decrease, which helps in conserving water as well.
Considering these aspects, statement 'c' from the provided list is the false one, as it incorrectly asserts that the stomata open wider under drought conditions, which would actually increase water loss through transpiration, rather than conserving it.