Standard Science Primary 5 Systems

Alexa removed an outer ring of stem from a potted plant, as shown in the diagram. After a week, what will happen to the part of the stem immediately ABOVE the cut?

A It will wither and die.
B It will remain unchanged.
C It will swell.
D It will grow roots.
Show Worked Solution

Worked Solution

Step 1: Removing the outer ring removes the food-carrying tubes (phloem). Step 2: The leaves above the cut continue to make food during photosynthesis. Step 3: This food cannot be transported downwards past the cut. Step 4: The accumulated food causes the stem immediately above the cut to swell.

Correct answer: It will swell.

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