Plant Cells and Tissues

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to plant cells, their structure, growth mechanisms, and transportation systems.

Cell Wall

The rigid outer layer of a plant cell that provides structure and support.

Primary Cell Wall

The flexible outer wall made of cellulose and pectin that allows cell expansion.

Secondary Cell Wall

A thicker, rigid inner wall made of lignin, providing strength to the cell.

Middle Lamella

The layer of pectin that glues plant cells together.

Plasmodesmata

Tiny channels through the cell walls that connect plant cells, allowing communication and transport.

Meristems

Special zones in plants where cell division occurs, enabling continuous growth.

Apical Meristems

Meristems located at the tips of roots and shoots, responsible for vertical growth.

Lateral Meristems

Meristems located around the sides of stems and trunks, responsible for thickness in growth.

Xylem

The vascular tissue in plants that transports water and minerals upward.

Phloem

The vascular tissue that transports sugars and nutrients in both upward and downward directions.

Turgor Pressure

The pressure exerted by water inside the vacuole, helping to maintain cell shape and plant rigidity.

Cohesion-Tension Theory

The theory describing how water is pulled up through plants via evaporation and adhesion.

Pressure Flow Hypothesis

The mechanism explaining how sugars are transported in plants through changes in pressure.