Final answer:
Without water, a plant cannot photosynthesize effectively because water is crucial for the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis. A virtual plant given no water but high light and carbon dioxide will survive only briefly due to reduced photosynthesis and eventual depletion of essential sugars.
Step-by-step explanation:
Plants require water, carbon dioxide, and sunlight to carry out photosynthesis, which is the process by which they make food for growth and survival. In the absence of water, a plant cannot photosynthesize effectively, even if there is abundant light and carbon dioxide. This is due to the fact that water is essential in the formation of NADPH during the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis. Furthermore, water stress can cause plants to close their stomata to prevent water loss, consequently reducing carbon dioxide intake and limiting the photosynthetic process. If a virtual plant is given high amounts of light and carbon dioxide but no water, it will likely survive for only a short period before succumbing due to the inability to synthesize necessary sugars and other compounds. The exact duration of survival would depend on the species and its specific adaptations to water stress.