Life Sciences 11 Module 3 Glossary.docx

Life Sciences 11 Glossary Module 3 Lesson 1 – Plant Characteristics Cell wall – a protective layer in plant cells. Cellulose is its main component, providing strength and structure. Chlorophyll - a green pigment in plants that captures sunlight for photosynthesis, converting it into energy for plant...

Life Sciences 11 Glossary Module 3 Lesson 1 – Plant Characteristics Cell wall – a protective layer in plant cells. Cellulose is its main component, providing strength and structure. Chlorophyll - a green pigment in plants that captures sunlight for photosynthesis, converting it into energy for plant growth. Starch - a carbohydrate stored in plants as an energy reserve. It's made up of glucose molecules linked together. Alternation of generations - a reproductive cycle in plants and some algae, involving both a multicellular haploid (n) and diploid (2n) phase in their life cycle, often switching between them. Diploid - cells or organisms with two sets of chromosomes, one inherited from each parent. Haploid - cells or organisms with a single set of chromosomes, containing half the usual number of chromosomes for that species. Gametophyte - the haploid phase in the life cycle of plants and some algae. It produces gametes (sex cells), which combine to form a diploid zygote, leading to the next generation. Sporophyte - the diploid phase in the life cycle of plants and some algae. It produces spores through meiosis, which develop into haploid gametophytes, starting the next generation's life cycle. Meiosis - a cell division process that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in the formation of haploid cells (gametes) from diploid cells. It is essential for sexual reproduction. Spore - a small, typically single-celled reproductive structure produced by certain plants, fungi, and some microorganisms. Spores can develop into new individuals under favorable conditions. Gamete – in plant biology, a gamete is a haploid reproductive cell involved in plant sexual reproduction. Zygote - a fertilized egg with paired chromosomes. Fertilization - the fusion of male and female gametes, resulting in a diploid zygote. Desiccation - the process of drying out or dehydration, which can harm plant tissues when water is scarce. Non-vascular - plants that lack specialized tissues for water and nutrient transport, such as mosses. Bryophyte - a non-vascular plant group that includes mosses, liverworts, and hornworts, characterized by a simple structure and water-dependent reproduction. Vascular - plants that have specialized tissues called xylem and phloem, which enable them to transport water, nutrients, and food throughout their bodies. Vascular plants include ferns, conifers, and flowering plants.