Question

Most of the growth of a plant body is the result of

(A) cell differentiation.

(B) morphogenesis.

(C) cell division.

(D) cell elongation.

Short answer

(A) The option “cell differentiation’’ isfalse.

(B) The option “morphogenesis’’ isfalse.

(C) The option “cell division” isfalse.

(D) The option “cell elongation” is true.

Step-by-step solution

Plant growth 

The term plant growth indicates the process of increasing plant volume and mass by the formation of new tissues and organelles in them. It takes place in various steps: the formation of sprout from seed and the formation of adult plant from a small plant.

Explanation of option ‘(A)’

Cell differentiation is the process in which immature cells undergo differentiation to form a mature cell. It helps in the formation of more specialized cells, not in the growth of the plant body.

Thus, cell differentiation does not result in the growth of the plant body.

Therefore, the given option is false.

Explanation of option ‘(B)’

Morphogenesis comprises two words: ‘morpho’ and ‘genesis.’ Former means morphology, and the latter means formation. Thus, it indicates the process that helps the organism to develop its shape (morphology).

Thus, morphogenesis deals with the morphology of the organism, not the plant growth.

Therefore, the given option is false.

Explanation of option ‘(C)’

Cell division is the process in which a parent cell divides to form daughter cells. It results in the formation of new cells in the body. It is of two types that are mitosis and meiosis.

Thus, cell division indicates the division of the cell, not plant growth.

Therefore, the given option is false.

Explanation of option ‘(D)’

Cell elongation is the process in which a cell elongates due to hormones in the body. In plants, a hormone named auxin help in the elongation of plants. It is found in the tip of roots and shoots, thus resulting in elongation of stems and roots.

Thus, the growth of the plant body is a result of cell elongation.

Therefore, the given option is true.