Question

Which of the following is not a correct statement comparing plant tissues and animal tissues? a. Nervous tissue of animals plays the same role as vascular tissue in plants. b. The dermal tissue of plants is similar to epithelial tissue of animals in that both provide a covering for the organism. c. The epithelial tissue of animals and the dermal tissue of plants have special characteristics that limit the movement of material between cell layers.

Short answer

The incorrect statement is 'Nervous tissue of animals plays the same role as vascular tissue in plants.'

Step-by-step solution

Understand the function of each tissue mentioned

First, let's understand the roles of each tissue. \n\nNervous tissue in animals is responsible for receiving stimuli from the external environment and transmitting this information to the rest of the body. \n\nVascular tissue in plants is responsible for transporting water, nutrients, and sugars between the roots and the leaves. \n\nEpithelial tissue in animals forms the outer layer of the body and protects the body from damage and infection. \n\nDermal tissue in plants also forms the outer protective layer and controls the interaction between the plant and its environment.

Analyze each statement

Next, we analyze the correctness of each statement based on our understanding of the functions of these tissues. \n\nStatement a suggests that the nervous tissue in animals plays the same role as the vascular tissue in plants. This is incorrect because the nervous tissue in animals and the vascular tissue in plants serve different functions. The nervous tissue is responsible for transmitting signals, while the vascular tissue is involved in the transport of nutrients and water. \n\nStatement b suggests that the dermal tissue of plants is similar to the epithelial tissue of animals because both provide a covering for the organism. This is correct. Both types of tissue serve a protective function and form a barrier between the organism and its environment. \n\nStatement c suggests that the epithelial tissue of animals and the dermal tissue of plants have special characteristics that limit the movement of material between cell layers. This is also correct. These tissues act as barriers and help prevent the free movement of materials.

Identify the incorrect statement

Based on our analysis in step 2, statement a is the incorrect one. This is because the functions of the nervous tissue in animals and vascular tissue in plants are not the same.

Key concepts

Nervous Tissue Function

Nervous tissue is a crucial component of animal physiology, responsible primarily for communication and coordination throughout the body. Found in both the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS), it is composed of specialized cells called neurons and glial cells. These cells collaborate to manage and relay information.

Nervous tissue enables animals to respond effectively to external stimuli. It interprets sensory data from the environment, processes this information in the brain, and then sends appropriate signals to other body parts for action. This intricate communication system is essential for survival, allowing organisms to adapt to changes promptly. Furthermore, nervous tissues play a significant role in regulating functions like movement, thought, and emotion.

• Allows organisms to react to environmental changes swiftly
• Ensures coordinated body functions
• Involves complex interactions of neurons for processing stimuli

Vascular Tissue Role

In plants, vascular tissue is indispensable for maintaining life by ensuring efficient transport of water, minerals, and nutrients. Comprising two main types - xylem and phloem, these tissues form a plant's transport system akin to the circulatory system in animals.

The xylem is primarily responsible for the upward movement of water and dissolved minerals from roots to leaves. On the other hand, phloem facilitates the distribution of sugars and other metabolic products throughout the plant. By performing these essential functions, vascular tissues support plant growth, reproduction, and survival.

• Xylem: Transports water and minerals upwards
• Phloem: Distributes nutrients and sugars
• Enables sustained plant growth and vitality

Epithelial Tissue Function

Epithelial tissue in animals serves as a protective layer that covers the body's surface and lines the cavities and organs. This tissue acts as a barrier against physical damage, pathogens, and chemical harm, ensuring that internal environments remain stable and unharmed.

Epithelial cells are tightly packed to form a continuous layer, limiting the movement of substances across cell boundaries. This selective permeability is crucial for processes like absorption, filtration, and secretion, contributing to overall homeostasis. Additionally, certain epithelial tissues have specialized structures for functions like sensory reception, secretion of hormones, and absorption of nutrients.

• Forms a physical barrier to protect internal environments
• Regulates transfer of materials through selective permeability
• Specialized in supporting various bodily functions

Dermal Tissue Role

The dermal tissue system in plants is analogous to the animal epithelial tissue, providing a critical protective barrier on the plant's exterior. Comprised primarily of the epidermis, dermal tissue shields plants from physical damage and disease while regulating gas exchange and water loss.

A waxy layer known as the cuticle covers the epidermis, minimizing water loss and protecting against pathogens. In addition to protection, dermal tissues also assist in interacting with the environment through structures like stomata, which play a key role in photosynthesis by facilitating gas exchange.

• Protects against environmental damage and pathogens
• Reduces water loss with the cuticle layer
• Facilitates gas exchange for photosynthesis