Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Why are non-vascular plants generally smaller in size compared to vascular plants?
A
They have a thicker cuticle to prevent water loss.
B
They lack a specialized system for water and nutrient transport.
C
They have a higher rate of photosynthesis.
D
They possess a more complex root system.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the basic difference between vascular and non-vascular plants. Vascular plants have specialized structures called xylem and phloem that transport water, nutrients, and food throughout the plant, while non-vascular plants do not have these structures.
Recognize that non-vascular plants rely on diffusion and osmosis for the movement of water and nutrients. This limits their ability to transport these essential resources efficiently over long distances, which is why they are generally smaller.
Consider the role of the cuticle in plants. While a thicker cuticle can help prevent water loss, it does not address the fundamental issue of transport systems, which is the main reason for the size difference.
Evaluate the impact of photosynthesis rates. Although photosynthesis is crucial for energy production, the rate of photosynthesis does not directly determine the size of the plant. The transport system is more influential in this regard.
Examine the complexity of root systems. While complex root systems can aid in nutrient absorption, non-vascular plants typically have simpler structures like rhizoids, which do not contribute to larger plant size due to the lack of transport systems.