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Question 1.1
1.1.1 Identify tissues B and C
- B: The cells are relatively large, thin-walled, and somewhat loosely packed, characteristic of parenchyma tissue.
- C: The cells contain numerous small, circular structures (chloroplasts), indicating that it is chlorenchyma tissue, a type of parenchyma specialized for photosynthesis.
1.1.2 Explain TWO structural adaptations of tissue A for its functions.
Tissue A shows a stoma (pore) surrounded by guard cells. Its functions include gas exchange and transpiration.
- Adaptation 1: The guard cells surrounding the stoma are able to change shape due to changes in turgor pressure. This allows them to open and close the stomatal pore, regulating the rate of gas exchange (carbon dioxide intake, oxygen release) and water vapor loss (transpiration).
- Adaptation 2: The presence of a pore (stoma) itself provides a direct opening for efficient diffusion of gases between the plant's internal tissues and the external atmosphere.
1.1.3 Explain why tissue C would not be suitable as the main tissue in the root between the epidermis and the xylem.
- Tissue C is chlorenchyma, which is specialized for photosynthesis due to the presence of chloroplasts. Roots are typically located underground, where there is no access to sunlight. Therefore, photosynthesis cannot occur in root tissue. Using chlorenchyma in the root would be inefficient as its primary function would be useless, and roots require tissues adapted for water and mineral absorption, as well as storage.
1.1.4 Give TWO differences between xylem vessels and phloem sieve tubes.
- Difference 1 (Function): Xylem vessels primarily transport water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant. Phloem sieve tubes primarily transport sugars (food) produced during photosynthesis from the leaves to other parts of the plant where they are needed for growth or storage.
- Difference 2 (Cell Structure/State): Xylem vessels are composed of dead cells at maturity, forming continuous, hollow tubes with lignified walls. Phloem sieve tubes are composed of living cells (though they lack a nucleus at maturity) and are associated with companion cells, having relatively thin, non-lignified walls and sieve plates.
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