Question

Nutrition is included in which phase of plant development? (a) Former (b) Latter (c) Both (a) and (b) (d) None of these

Short answer

(c) Both (a) and (b)

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the question

The question is asking during what phase of plant development nutrition is required. The given options are (a) Former, (b) Latter, (c) Both (a) and (b), and (d) None of these.

Recalling plant growth and development

Plant growth and development involves the cell division, growth and differentiation. This process is continuous throughout a plant’s lifetime, hence the growth phases of a plant include both the initiate phase (former) and the maturity phase (latter).

Mapping the importance of nutrition in plant development

Nutrition is vital for the plant at every stage. It is crucial for the formation of plant cells and tissues during the former or initiating phase. Nutrition also fuels the growth and maintenance of the plant during the latter or mature phase.

Conclusion

Based on the significance of nutrition in both phases of plant development, we can conclude that the correct answer is (c) Both (a) and (b).

Key concepts

Nutrition in Plants

Plants, like all living organisms, require certain nutrients to thrive. Understanding nutrition in plants highlights how essential nutrients support growth processes. These nutrients are sourced primarily from air, water, and soil. Key nutrients include carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, which are absorbed from air and water.
Other important nutrients are nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sulfur, each playing a unique role in plant development. These are absorbed from the soil through plant roots.

• Macronutrients: Required in large quantities, such as nitrogen for protein synthesis.
• Micronutrients: Needed in smaller amounts, like iron and zinc, which act as catalysts in enzyme reactions.

Providing adequate nutrition ensures plants have the necessary energy and materials to grow, reproduce, and carry out vital functions.

Growth Phases

Plant development occurs in distinct stages, known as growth phases. These phases ensure that a plant goes from a tiny seed to a mature plant capable of reproduction. Understanding these phases helps us appreciate the continuous transformation plants undergo.

• Former Phase (Initial Phase): This is when a seed germinates and begins its journey of growth. Here, primary growth occurs, leading to the lengthening of roots and shoots.
• Latter Phase (Mature Phase): Plants experience secondary growth, becoming thicker and woodier. This phase emphasizes maturity, where flowers may bloom, and seeds are produced.

Each growth phase requires proper nutrition and environmental conditions to ensure successful transitions.

Cell Division and Differentiation

Cell division and differentiation are fundamental processes in a plant's lifecycle, driving its growth and formation of specialized tissues. Cell division involves the replication of cells, allowing the plant to increase in size and mass. This occurs in growth regions called meristems.

• Cell Division (Mitosis and Meiosis): Mitosis results in the production of two identical cells from a single cell, crucial for growth. Meiosis, however, is key for reproduction, leading to genetic diversity.
• Differentiation: As cells divide, they also specialize or differentiate, developing into various types of plant tissues like xylem, phloem, and epidermal cells. This specialization allows the plant to perform complex functions like water transportation and photosynthesis.

Both cell division and differentiation are essential in forming the complex structure of a plant and require a balanced supply of nutrients to be efficient.