Question

The primary growth of a plant is due to the action of the ________.

a. lateral meristem

b. vascular cambium

c. apical meristem

d. cork cambium

Short answer

C. Apical meristem

Step-by-step solution

Step-1 Introduction

Primary growth is the upward growth and downward growth of the plants. The growth that makes a plant longer. Additional growths are also experienced by some plants called secondary growth, which occurs in dicot plants, such as trees, shrubs, and vines.

Step-2 Explanation

Meristematic tissues are the type of tissues that contribute to the continuous growth and division of cells for plant growth. Primary growth results in an increase in length of the stem and the root which is caused by constant cell division in the shoot or root region. The meristematic tissues present in the shoot and root are called apical meristem.

Lateral meristem is responsible for the secondary growth in plants such as, increase in diameter of the stem and root, increase in girth, etc.

Vascular cambium comprises of xylem and phloem cells that helps in organic substances, minerals, and water transportation in plants.

Cork cambium helps in the formation of periderm. Cork cambium reduces the excess water loss as well as provide protection against microbes.

Step-3 Final Answer

Therefore, option ‘c’ is the correct answer

Apical meristem is responsible for the primary growth of plants.