Which of the following is involved in secondary thickening in plants?
Answer Details
Secondary thickening in plants is primarily caused by the activity of the vascular cambium and the cork cambium.
The vascular cambium is a layer of cells located between the xylem (the tissue responsible for transporting water and minerals from roots to the rest of the plant) and the phloem (the tissue responsible for transporting sugars and other organic compounds). The vascular cambium produces new cells that increase the diameter of the stem or root, leading to secondary growth and increased thickness.
The cork cambium, on the other hand, produces cork cells that form a protective outer layer on the plant. This helps to prevent water loss and protect the plant from damage. Over time, as more cork cells are produced, the plant becomes thicker and more durable.
In summary, both the vascular cambium and cork cambium are involved in secondary thickening in plants, with the vascular cambium increasing the diameter of the stem or root and the cork cambium producing a protective outer layer.