Multiple Choice
What type of phyllotaxy minimizes shading of lower leaves?
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33. Plant Anatomy
Roots and Shoots
1:02 minutesProblem 5
Textbook Question
Describe the general function of the shoot and the general function of the root system. Which tissues are continuous throughout these two systems?
Suggest a hypothesis to explain why the shoot and root systems of different species are so variable in size and shape.
Verified step by step guidance1
The shoot system primarily functions in photosynthesis, reproduction, and storage. It includes structures such as stems, leaves, and flowers, which are involved in capturing light energy, gas exchange, and producing seeds.
The root system primarily functions in anchoring the plant, absorbing water and nutrients from the soil, and storing food. Roots can also interact with soil microorganisms to enhance nutrient uptake.
The vascular tissues, xylem and phloem, are continuous throughout both the shoot and root systems. Xylem transports water and minerals from roots to shoots, while phloem distributes sugars and other organic nutrients throughout the plant.
A hypothesis to explain the variability in size and shape of shoot and root systems among different species could be that these variations are adaptations to specific environmental conditions. For example, plants in arid environments may have extensive root systems to maximize water absorption, while those in dense forests may have taller shoots to compete for sunlight.
To test this hypothesis, one could compare the shoot and root system structures of plants from different environments and analyze how these structures correlate with environmental factors such as light availability, soil type, and water availability.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Function of the Shoot System
The shoot system of a plant primarily consists of stems, leaves, and flowers. Its main functions include photosynthesis, reproduction, and the transport of water and nutrients. The shoot system is responsible for capturing light energy and converting it into chemical energy through photosynthesis, as well as facilitating gas exchange and supporting reproductive structures.
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Function of the Root System
The root system anchors the plant in the soil and is crucial for water and nutrient absorption. It stores food and nutrients, and in some plants, it can also be involved in vegetative reproduction. Roots play a vital role in interacting with soil microorganisms, which can enhance nutrient uptake and provide protection against pathogens.
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Continuous Tissues in Plant Systems
Vascular tissues, specifically xylem and phloem, are continuous throughout the shoot and root systems. Xylem transports water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant, while phloem distributes the sugars and nutrients produced by photosynthesis. This continuity allows for efficient resource distribution and communication between different parts of the plant.
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