SB2c Growth in Plants

Question 1

Describe the stages of growth in plants (cell

division/mitosis)

Answer 1

Cell division in plants occurs in regions called meristems In a growing shoot, new cells are being produced continuously near the tip. As the cells become older, they move further away from the tip and become differentiated.

Question 2

Describe the stages of growth in plants ( elongation)

Answer 2

Plant cells are also able to become longer as they grow. This process is called cell elongation and occurs throughout the plant, not just in the meristems.

Question 3

Give examples of specialised plant cells (root hair cells)

Answer 3

The root hairs are where most water absorption happens. They are long and thin so they can penetrate between soil particles and they have a large surface area for absorption of water.

Question 4

Give examples of specialised plant cells (xylem cells)

Answer 4

The xylem is a tissue which transports water and minerals from the roots up the plant stem and into the leaves
They lose their end walls so the xylem forms a continuous, hollow tube.
They become strengthened by a substance called lignin. Lignin gives strength and support to the plant. We call lignified cells wood.