Standard Science Primary 5 Systems

A ring of the outer stem of a plant was removed, as shown below. After a week, a swelling was observed ABOVE the ring. What does this suggest?

A The roots have stopped growing.
B The plant cannot take in sunlight.
C Food-carrying tubes were removed.
D Water-carrying tubes were removed.
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Worked Solution

Step 1: Food is made in the leaves and travels down the stem. Step 2: Removing the outer ring removes the phloem (food tubes) but leaves the xylem (water tubes) intact. Step 3: Food accumulates above the cut, causing the swelling.

Correct answer: Food-carrying tubes were removed.

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