W2 Specify Plants - Botany Topic 1 Flashcards
What is taxonomy?
The study of classification, identification, and naming of living organisms. Created by Carolus Linnaeus (1707-1778).
What are the five kingdoms in modern taxonomy?
- Monera (single-celled, no nucleus)
- Protista (single-celled with nucleus)
- Fungi (multicellular, absorb food)
- Plants (multicellular with cellulose walls)
- Animals (multicellular, ingest food)
What are the three major plant divisions?
- Thallophyta (aquatic plants, no true organs)
- Bryophyta (early land plants, no vascular system)
- Tracheophyta (vascular plants)
What are the three classes of Tracheophyta?
- Filicinae (ferns, reproduce by spores)
- Gymnospermae (naked seeds, e.g., conifers)
- Angiospermae (flowering plants, enclosed seeds)
What distinguishes monocotyledons from dicotyledons?
- Monocots: One seed leaf, parallel leaf venation, flower parts in threes
- Dicots: Two seed leaves, netted leaf venation, flower parts in fours or fives
What are the main parts of a typical flowering plant?
- Roots (anchoring, absorption)
- Stems (support, transport)
- Leaves (photosynthesis)
- Flowers (reproduction)
- Seeds/Fruits (reproduction, dispersal)
What is the function of xylem and phloem?
- Xylem: Carries water and nutrients upward from roots
- Phloem: Carries sugars and derivatives throughout plant
What are stomata and their function?
Tiny pores in leaves that allow gas exchange for photosynthesis and control water loss through transpiration.
What are the three main processes in plant physiology?
- Photosynthesis (making food)
- Respiration (using food for energy)
- Transpiration (water movement and cooling)
What is the basic equation for photosynthesis?
6CO2 + 12H2O → C6H12O6 + 6O2 + 6H2O (with light and chlorophyll)
What affects the rate of transpiration?
- Wind conditions
- Temperature
- Humidity
- Soil moisture
- Light intensity
- Number of leaves/stomata
How can transpiration be reduced in propagation?
- Using misting systems
- Maintaining high humidity
- Providing shade
- Using clear plastic coverings
Why do variegated leaves have limited photosynthesis?
They have less chlorophyll in the white/light areas, reducing their capacity for photosynthesis.
How does oxygen affect seed storage?
Limiting oxygen exposure reduces respiration rate, which prolongs seed viability.
Why are plants misted during propagation?
To increase humidity and reduce water loss through transpiration while roots develop.
What’s the purpose of shading in greenhouses?
To reduce temperature and transpiration rates, preventing water stress.
Why are seeds stored in sealed foil packets?
To exclude oxygen, reducing respiration rates and extending viability.
How do plants adapt to reduce water loss?
- Developing thick waxy cuticles
- Having fewer stomata
- Rolling leaves
- Growing smaller leaves
- Having leaf hairs
