Plant Biology: Root Functions and Structure

Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of the root cap?

To store energy for the plant

To anchor the plant in the soil

To absorb nutrients from the soil

To protect the root as it grows (correct)

Which tissue type is primarily responsible for the transport of water and minerals in plants?

Ground tissue

Dermal tissue

Vascular tissue (correct)

Meristematic tissue

In which root zone do cells primarily increase in size?

Zone of elongation (correct)

Zone of protection

Zone of differentiation

Meristematic zone

What distinguishes xylem vessels from tracheids?

Tracheids have tapered ends, while vessels do not Signup and view all the answers

What is one significant role of ground tissue?

Stores food and performs photosynthesis Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic differentiates monocots from dicots regarding flower parts?

Monocots have flower parts in fours or fives Signup and view all the answers

Which zone of the root is primarily responsible for the development into various tissues?

Zone of differentiation Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential to use a very thin section when examining plant tissues under a microscope?

To ensure light passes through the section Signup and view all the answers

What happens in the meristematic zone of a root?

New cells are produced by mitosis Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Root Functions and Types

Roots anchor the plant in soil and absorb water.
Two main types of roots: tap roots and fibrous roots.

Root Zones

Four distinct root zones:
- Zone of Differentiation: Cells develop into dermal, ground, and vascular tissues.
- Zone of Elongation: Cells increase in size, contributing to root growth.
- Meristematic Zone: Area of active cell division producing new cells via mitosis.
- Zone of Protection: Contains a root cap to protect cells as they push through soil.

Types of Tissues in Roots

Dermal Tissue: Functions include protection of the plant.
Ground Tissue: Primarily involved in food storage.
Vascular Tissue: Specialized for the transport of water, minerals (xylem), and food (phloem).

Stem and Leaf Functions

Stems support aerial parts of the plant and may store food.
Leaves are primarily responsible for photosynthesis and transpiration (water loss).

Xylem vs. Phloem

Xylem transports water and minerals from roots to other parts of the plant.
Phloem transports food produced through photosynthesis to various plant parts.

Differences in Vascular Structures

Xylem vessels have no tapered ends, while tracheids do.

Monocots vs. Dicots

Monocot leaf venation is parallel; dicot leaf venation is netted.
Monocots have flower parts in multiples of three; dicots have them in fours or fives.

Dicot Stem Observations

Plant Used: Busy Lizzie (Impatiens).
Dicotyledon Definition: Refers to plants with two seed-leaves.
Importance of Thin Sections: A thin slice is essential for light to pass through for microscopic examination.
Transfer Method: Sections were transferred using forceps.
Safe Cutting: Scalpels were used to cut away from the body for safety.

Description

Test your knowledge on the functions, types, and zones of plant roots. This quiz covers the basic structures and roles of roots, including differentiation and tissue types. Perfect for biology students wanting to solidify their understanding of root systems.