Final answer:
The Mimosa pudica, also known as the Sensitive Plant, reacts to touch by folding its leaves inward, but it does not die. This unique behavior is due to a mechanism called thigmonasty or seismonasty.
Step-by-step explanation:
The plant that reacts to touch by appearing to die (actually, folding its leaves inward) is known as the Mimosa pudica, often referred to as the Sensitive Plant or Shame Plant. Whenever the petals or leaves of the Mimosa pudica are touched, they will automatically close or shrink inwards as a defense mechanism against potential harm. However, the plant does not actually die from this; it will reopen after a few minutes and continue to live and grow normally. Interestingly, this plant's unique physical response to being touched is due to a process called thigmonasty or seismonasty, which is the movement in response to touch or vibration.
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