Plant Anatomy and Functions

Study Notes

Root System

There are two types of root systems: fibrous and taproot.
Fibrous root system has many roots of equal size, while taproot has one main root with smaller roots branching out.
Root systems help absorb water and dissolved minerals from the soil.

Shoot System

The shoot system consists of the stem, leaves, fruits, and flowers.
It always grows upwards.

Stem

Stems connect leaves to roots and transport water, food, and nutrients within the plant.
Stems provide structural support and hold leaves towards sunlight.
Woody stems are covered in bark, protecting the plant from diseases.
Swollen stems, such as in cacti, store water.

Transport in Plants

Plants have a transport system made of two separate sets of tubes: xylem and phloem.
Xylem carries water from roots to leaves.
Phloem carries food from leaves to all parts of the plant.

Inside a Stem

The pith is the central part of the stem, storing food and nutrients.
Vascular bundles are arranged in a ring with xylem on the inner side and phloem on the outer side.
The epidermis is the outermost protective layer of plant cells.

Leaves

Leaves are thin and flat structures with a petiole, midrib, and a network of veins.
Leaves are responsible for the process of photosynthesis, preparing food for the plant.

Leaf Venation

There are two types of leaf venation: parallel and netted.
Parallel veins run parallel to each other.
Netted veins form a network.

Inside the Leaf

Veins run throughout the leaf, providing structural support and carrying materials.
The waxy cuticle is a waterproof layer on the leaf's upper surface.
The upper and lower epidermis are single layers of cells that form the outer layer of the leaf.
Mesophyll is a layer of cells containing chlorophyll for photosynthesis.
Stomata are small openings on the lower epidermis that allow for gas exchange (carbon dioxide in, oxygen out).
Xylem transports water and minerals from the roots to the leaves, located in the mesophyll.
Phloem transports food from the leaves to other parts of the plant, located in the mesophyll.

Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants use light energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into sugars (glucose).
Photosynthesis requires light, water, chlorophyll, and carbon dioxide.

Respiration

Respiration is the process by which plants break down glucose to release energy.
Plants use released energy to carry out life processes, such as growth and repair.
Respiration occurs in all living cells.

Transpiration

Transpiration is the loss of water vapor from plants through stomata in the leaves.
Transpiration helps to transport water and minerals from the roots to the leaves.
Factors affecting transpiration include: wind, temperature, light, and humidity.

Description

Explore the vital components of plant anatomy including root and shoot systems, the function of stems, and the transport mechanisms within plants. This quiz covers key concepts like fibrous and taproot systems, as well as the roles of xylem and phloem in nutrient and water transportation.