Stem Cells + Meristems

Question 0

What are stem cells?

Answer 0

They are unspecialised cells (in animals) which have the ability to divide to produce cells that can become different types of specialised cells

Question 1

What is a meristem?

Answer 1

Areas in plants where new unspecialised cells are produced by cell division

Question 2

What is meant by the term differentiation?

Answer 2

It’s the process by which an unspecialised cell develops into a specialised cell

Question 3

What are the two main types of stem cell?

Answer 3

Embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells

Question 4

Where are embryonic stem cells found?

Answer 4

Embryos

Question 5

Where are adult stem cells found?

Answer 5

Most of the tissues and organs of the body

Question 6

What is the difference between the two types of stem cell, in terms of the types of cell they can become?

Answer 6

Embryonic stem cells can form any type of cell whereas adult stem cells become specific cell types

Question 7

What are some arguments that agree with stem cell research?

Answer 7

~Helps prevent illness

~stops suffering

Question 8

What are some arguments against stem cell research especially when it is of the use of embryonic stem cells?

Answer 8

~Involves the destruction of embryos

~potential loss of humans

Question 9

Which meristem is responsible for the increase in the length and height of the shoot and root?

Answer 9

Apical meristems

Question 10

Which meristem is responsible for the increase in the width of the stem?

Answer 10

Lateral meristems