Plant Structure and Function

A series of vocabulary flashcards related to plant structure and function, covering key terms and definitions important for understanding plant biology.

Eukaryotic

Organisms that have cells with a nucleus enclosed within membranes.

Multicellular

Organisms that consist of more than one cell.

Autotrophic

Organisms that can produce their own food through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis.

Xylem

Vascular tissue in plants that transports water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant.

Phloem

Vascular tissue responsible for transporting sugars and other metabolic products downward from the leaves.

Meristematic tissue

Plant tissue that is capable of continuous division and growth.

Dermal tissue

The outer protective layer of a plant, analogous to skin in humans.

Ground tissue

Tissue that makes up the bulk of a plant, involved in photosynthesis, storage, and support.

Respiration

The process by which plants convert glucose and oxygen into energy, releasing carbon dioxide.

Photosynthesis

The process by which green plants use sunlight to synthesize foods from carbon dioxide and water.

Transpiration

The process of water movement through a plant and its evaporation from aerial parts, primarily leaves.

Stomata

Small openings on the surfaces of leaves that allow for gas exchange.

Guard cells

Cells that surround the stomata and regulate their opening and closing to control gas exchange.

Fruits

The mature ovary of a flowering plant, usually containing seeds.

Ovary

The part of a flower that contains the ovules and develops into fruit after fertilization.

Seed

Embryonic plant enclosed in a protective coating, capable of developing into a new plant.

Roots

Underground structures that anchor the plant, absorb water and nutrients, and store food.

Stem

The main structural support of a plant, connecting the roots to the leaves.

Leaves

The primary site of photosynthesis in plants, capturing light energy and gas exchange.

Angiosperms

Flowering plants that produce seeds enclosed within a fruit.

Gymnosperms

Non-flowering plants that reproduce by means of exposed seeds.

Glucose

A simple sugar that is an important energy source in living organisms.

Cuticle

A protective, waxy layer covering the epidermis of leaves and stems.

Palisade mesophyll

Layer of cells in leaves where most photosynthesis occurs.

Spongy mesophyll

Layer in the leaf that allows for gas exchange and contains many air spaces.

Anther

The part of a stamen that produces pollen.

Stamen

The male reproductive structure of a flower.

Pistil

The female reproductive part of a flower, consisting of the ovary, stigma, and style.