Advanced Science Primary 5 Systems

Mei removed the outer ring of the stem of a plant, cutting away the food-carrying tubes but leaving the water-carrying tubes intact. What will most likely happen to the plant after one week?

A The roots will grow faster because they receive more food.
B The stem above the cut will swell because food cannot be transported downwards.
C The plant will stop making food immediately.
D The leaves will wilt immediately because they cannot receive water.
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Worked Solution

Step 1: Leaves make food (sugar) which is transported downwards by food-carrying tubes (phloem). Step 2: Removing the outer ring removes these tubes, creating a roadblock. Step 3: Food accumulates above the cut, causing that section of the stem to swell.

Correct answer: The stem above the cut will swell because food cannot be transported downwards.

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