NEETBotanyMorphology of Flowering Plants
What is the function of the cells in the region of meristematic activity in a plant root?
Options
- ATo absorb water and minerals
- BTo protect the tender apex of the root
- CTo divide repeatedly
- DTo promote root hair formation
Correct answer
C. To divide repeatedly
Step-by-step solution
The root is covered at the apex by a thimble-like structure called the root cap (Figure 5.3). It protects the tender apex of the root as it makes its way through the soil. A few millimetres above the root cap is the region of meristematic activity. The cells of this region are very small, thin-walled and with dense protoplasm. They divide repeatedly. The cells proximal to this region undergo rapid elongation and enlargement and are responsible for the growth of the root in length. This region is called the region o