Plant Structures and Their Functions

Functions of Plant Structures

• Vascular Plants
• Two organ systems:
  • Shoot System:
  • Stem
  • Leaf
  • Flower
  • Root System:
  • Roots

Leaf Structures

• Function: Primary organ for photosynthesis
• Identification: Green, flattened structure attached to the stem
• Key Features: Contains mesophyll with many chloroplasts

Stomates

• Function: Control water loss through transpiration
• Identification: Openings on leaf surface
• Key Features: Surrounded by 2 guard cells that regulate size

Stem Structures

• Function: Connects roots and leaves; transports substances
• Identification: Contains vascular tissues like xylem and phloem
• Key Features: Xylem transports water; phloem distributes sugars

Flower Structures

• Function: Reproductive organ of the plant
• Identification: Composed of pistil (female) and stamen (male)
• Key Features: Facilitates pollination

Root Structures

• Function: Absorb water and nutrients
• Identification: Main root (primary) and others (secondary roots)
• Key Features: Root hairs increase surface area for absorption

Assessment Methodology:

• Use A.L.A.R.M to structure responses:
• Identify
• Describe
• Explain
• Assess

Key Relationships:

• Microscopic structures such as stomates and root hairs play critical roles in plant function (e.g., transpiration control, nutrient absorption).