Reproduction and Growth in Plants

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What are the main stages of the plant life cycle?

The main stages are sporophyte (diploid) and gametophyte (haploid) phases, alternating through haploid spores and gametes.

How do angiosperms reproduce sexually?

Angiosperms reproduce through pollination, where pollen is transferred to the stigma, followed by fertilization in the ovule.

What is the role of apical meristems in plant growth?

Apical meristems create new cells for primary growth, extending shoots and roots.

Describe vegetative propagation in plants.

Vegetative propagation is asexual reproduction through structures like stems, roots, and leaves, producing clones of the parent plant.

What is phototropism, and why is it important?

Phototropism is a plant's growth response toward or away from light, optimizing photosynthetic efficiency.

How do hormones affect plant growth and development?

Plant hormones, like auxins, gibberellins, and cytokinins, regulate processes such as cell division, elongation, and differentiation.

What is the significance of dormancy in seeds?

Dormancy prevents seed germination until conditions are optimal for survival and growth.

Explain what a rhizome is and its function in plant growth.

A rhizome is an underground stem that stores nutrients and aids in vegetative reproduction and perennation.

What are the differences between gymnosperms and angiosperms?

Gymnosperms have naked seeds, while angiosperms have seeds enclosed in fruit; angiosperms also have flowers.

Describe the function of lateral meristems in plants.

Lateral meristems cause secondary growth, increasing stem girth or thickness.

What is the purpose of plant pollination?

Pollination facilitates the transfer of pollen to enable fertilization, leading to seed and fruit production.

What adaptations do plants have for wind pollination?

Wind-pollinated plants often have small, inconspicuous flowers with long stamens and stigmas that catch pollen.

What distinguishes self-pollination from cross-pollination?

Self-pollination involves pollen transfer within the same plant, while cross-pollination occurs between different plants of the same species.

What role do fruits play in plant reproduction?

Fruits protect seeds and aid in their dispersal to new locations for germination.

How do plants adapt to arid environments for growth?

Plants adapt by reducing leaf size, developing thick cuticles, storing water, and opening stomata at night.

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