Plant Form and Function Flashcards
Define cell
the fundamental unit of life
Define tissue
a group of cells consisting of one or more cell types that together perform a specialized function
Define organs
consists of several types of tissues that together carry out particular functions
Describe the arrangement of xylem and phloem in monocots
a core or parenchyma cells (pith) surrounded by alternating rings of xylem and phloem
Describe the arrangement of xylem and phloem in dicots
the xylem is a star with phloem between the arms
Do dicots or monocots have two layers of leaf mesophyll?
Dicots
Do dicots or monocots have common or rare secondary growth
rare-monocot, common-dicot
Describe nodes
nodes are where leaves/branches are attached, they alternate with internodes
What is the general function of apical buds?
To elongate young roots and shoots
What is the general function of axillary bud?
to form a lateral branch, thorn, or flower
What is the general function of stems?
to elongate and orient the shoot for photosynthesis
What are some examples of stems with specialized functions? Describe them
Rhizomes are underground stems, stolons serve in asexual reproduction, tubers
What are some functions of roots (3 main)?
Anchor, absorb minerals and water, stores carbohydrates
Describe the formation of roots in large or non-trailing plants
the primary root is the first to emerge, it branches to form lateral roots which improve anchorage and water absorption (most of the absorption happens here)
Describe the formation of roots in small or trailing plants
the primary root dies early on and adventitious roots come from the stem to make lateral roots
What is the main function of root hairs? How are they able to achieve this?
Root hairs (extensions of epidermal cells) form from the root tip and increase the absorptive surface
Make up 70-90% of the surface area
Name some generalized specialized functions of some roots
Support, oxygen, storage
What is the main function of leaves?
they are the main photosynthetic organ of most vascular plants (green stems do a little)
What are some side/minor functions of leaves (3)?
Exchange gas, dissipate heat, defend from herbivores and pathogens
What is the difference between gross primary productivity and net productivity in relation to plants?
The gross primary productivity is all the food made, the net is what we get
What is the function of a chromoplast?
it produces bad-tasting or poison compounds
What is the function of stomata?
They are pores in the epidermis that allow for gas exchange
Where are stomata located? Why?
Major avenues for evaporation loss (so most are on the lower side of the leaf)
What is the function of guard cells?
they open and close to control stomata