Q10 / 180 · AIIMS 2005 · Botany

Which one of the following statements pertaining to plant structure is correct?

  • A
    Cork lacks stomata, but lenticels carry out transpiration.
  • B
    Passage cells help in transfer of food from cortex to phloem.
  • Correct answer
    C
    Sieve tube elements possess cytoplasm but no nuclei.
  • D
    The shoot apical meristem has a quiescent centre.

Solution

Mature cork cells are plant cells that form the protective water resistant tissue in the outer covering of stems and trunks. Cork cells are genetically programmed not to divide, but instead to remain as they are dead cells. Cork cells possess lenticels. A lenticel is produced beneath a former stomata or stoma of the epidermis. They encloses intercellular space for gaseous exchange. Passage cells help in transfer of water from cortex. Quiescent centre is present in root apical meristem.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'C'.

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