Topic 1 Element 3 External Functions of Plant Organs

Question 1

Roots: Functions

Answer 1

Primary functions:
-Provide anchorage
-Enable uptake of water and minerals

Question 2

Roots: Types

Answer 2

Tap root systems:
-Originate from the radicle (first root from seed)
-Nearly always found on eudicots
-Tap root is primary root supported by lateral roots

Fibrous root systems:
-Many roots originating from bases of stems
-Often found on monocots

Question 3

Roots: Adaptions

Answer 3

Swollen taproot eg. Daucus carota
Root tuber eg Dahlia ‘Bishop of Canterbury’
Adventitious roots eg Zea mays prop roots for support
Climbing roots eg Hedera helix

Question 3

Roots: Adaptions

Answer 3

Swollen taproot eg. Daucus carota
Root tuber eg Dahlia ‘Bishop of Canterbury’
Adventitious roots eg Zea mays prop roots for support
Climbing roots eg Hedera helix

Question 4

Roots: Adaptions

Answer 4

Swollen taproot eg. Daucus carota
Root tuber eg. Dahlia ‘Bishop of Canterbury’
Adventitious roots eg. Zea mays prop roots for support
Climbing roots eg Hedera helix

Question 5

Roots: External Structure

Answer 5

Root hair - part of epidermis. Increases surface area for water uptake.
Epidermis - outer layer of root cell. Provides protection and enables water uptake.
Root cap - exudes gel to enable penetration through soil. Continually replenished.