Problem 13 - Objective Biology for NEET

Question

Permanent tissues, which have all cell similar in structure and function are called (a) Complex tissues (b) Simple tissues (c) Meristematic tissues (d) All of these

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

(b) Simple tissues

Step 1: Understanding the terminology

Permanent tissues are a group of cells that are similar in structure and function. As they are derived from the Meristematic tissue, they have lost the ability of division.

Step 2: Identify the right option

Looking at the options, we can see that Complex tissues are made up of more than one type of cells, hence all cells in these tissues are not similar. Meristematic tissues, on the other hand, are tissues that have the ability to divide. Therefore, they are not Permanent tissues. The only suitable option remaining is Simple tissues.

Step 3: Confirm the right answer

Simple tissues are a collection of similar cells that perform a common function. This concurs with the definition of Permanent tissues. Hence, the answer is Simple tissues.

Key Concepts

Simple Tissues

In the study of plant biology, simple tissues are one of the classifications of permanent tissues. They are composed of cells that are similar in structure and function, which distinguishes them from complex tissues. These tissues typically perform a range of supportive and protective functions within the plant.

Simple tissues include types such as parenchyma, collenchyma, and sclerenchyma. Parenchyma cells are basic plant cells that often serve for storage and photosynthesis; they have thin walls and are capable of cell division under certain conditions. Collenchyma provides support to growing parts of plants due to their thicker cell walls, while sclerenchyma cells have the thickest walls, often lignified, making them essential for the structural integrity of the plant.

These tissue types are vital for the plant's ability to grow and function, aiding in processes such as wound repair, water conduction, and storage of nutrients. Understanding the roles and characteristics of simple tissues can shed light on plant physiology and adaptation.

Complex Tissues

In contrast to simple tissues, complex tissues in plants consist of more than one type of cell. These groups of diverse cells work together to perform specialized functions. Complex tissues are essential for carrying out more complex operations within the plant, such as transporting water, minerals, and nutrients to different parts of the plant.

Two main types of complex tissues are present in plants: xylem and phloem. Xylem is responsible for the transportation of water and minerals from roots to other plant parts, composed of vessels, tracheids, fibres, and parenchyma cells. On the other hand, phloem transports the products of photosynthesis such as sugars from the leaves to the rest of the plant, and consists of sieve tube elements, companion cells, phloem fibres, and phloem parenchyma. The complex structure of these tissues reflects their role in enabling long-distance transport and communication within the plant's vascular system.

Meristematic Tissues

Unlike permanent tissues, which have a set function and structure, meristematic tissues are regions in plants where cells continuously divide and differentiate. These tissues serve as growth points in the plant and can be found in areas such as the apex of roots and shoots, as well as in the cambium layer that contributes to the thickening of stems and roots.

Meristematic tissues are classified into three types based on their location: apical meristems, lateral meristems, and intercalary meristems. Apical meristems are located at the tips of roots and shoots, contributing to the plant’s length, while lateral meristems such as the vascular cambium and cork cambium, contribute to the girth of the plant. Intercalary meristems are found at the base of leaves or internodes and are particularly important for regrowth after parts of the plant have been cut or eaten. Understanding meristematic tissue is crucial for grasping how plants grow and develop from seedlings into mature organisms.