Plant Structure and Functions

Roots:

• Organ that absorbs water from the soil.
• Water moves through cells to vascular tissue and then up the xylem to the stem.

Stem:

• Supports leaves and carries water from roots to leaves.
• Transports glucose to all parts of the plant.
• Xylem:
• Transports water upwards and provides structural support.
• Phloem:
• Transports glucose up and down within the plant.

Leaves:

• Organs responsible for photosynthesis.
• Contain chloroplasts where photosynthesis occurs.
• Structure includes:
• Thin skin layer for protection.
• Waxy layer to prevent water loss.
• Stomata with guard cells for gas exchange (CO₂ and O₂).

Root Structure:

• Millions of root hairs increase surface area for water absorption.
• New cells produced through cell division increase root length.
• Thick wall cells protect roots as they penetrate soil.