Transport in Plants - Intro and Distribution of Vascular Tissues

Question 1

why do plants need a transport system

Answer 1

• multicellular, so not all cells in direct contact with their environment
• substances need to be transported to all cells to allow metabolic reactions to occur and waste to be removed
• plants can continue growing throughout their whole lives so can be very large (small SA:V ratio)

Question 2

what do plants need to transport

Answer 2

• water and mineral ions
• plant hormones
• assimilates
• carbon dioxide
• oxygen

Question 3

what is the function of the xylem

Answer 3

transports water and soluble mineral ions up the plant

Question 4

what is the function of the phloem

Answer 4

transports assimilates such as sucrose up and down the plant

Question 5

what other ways can substances be transported

Answer 5

• diffusion
• osmosis
• active transport
• bulk transport

Question 6

define the endodermis

Answer 6

sheath of cells surrounding the vascular bundle - has a key role in getting water into xylem vessels

Question 7

define the pericycle

Answer 7

layer of meristem cells - undifferentiated cells able to divide for new growth of tissues

Question 8

where are the vascular bundles in the root and why

Answer 8

middle to help the plant withstand the tugging strains that result as the stems and leaves are blown in the wind

Question 9

where are the vascular bundles in the stem and why

Answer 9

near edge of stem to provide strength and support the plant whilst allowing flexibility

Question 10

define the cambium

Answer 10

layer of meristem cells - undifferentiated cells able to produce new xylem and phloem

Question 11

define the parenchyma

Answer 11

packing and support tissue capable of cell division

Question 12

define the collenchyma

Answer 12

cells provide structural support, in growing shoots and leaves