Apical Meristems & Plant Growth — NEET Biology

Correct answer: C — A-4, B-1, C-2, D-3, E-5

This question tests the understanding of different meristem types and their specific contributions to primary and secondary growth. A. Shoot apical meristem: Responsible for the primary growth of the plant axis, specifically contributing to the elongation of stems and the formation of new leaves. Thus, A-4 is correct. (NCERT Page 168, Para 1, Line 3-4; Chapter 5 context) B. Root apical meristem: Located at the root tip, it constantly divides to produce new cells, primarily contributing to the elongation of roots (primary growth). Thus, B-1 is correct. (NCERT Page 168, Para 1, Line 3-4) C. Vascular cambium: A lateral meristem that appears later in life in dicots and gymnosperms, responsible for forming secondary xylem and secondary phloem, leading to an increase in girth (secondary growth). Thus, C-2 is correct. (NCERT Page 168, Para 2, Line 1-5) D. Cork cambium: Another lateral meristem that forms the periderm, a protective layer that replaces the epidermis in woody plants, contributing to the increase in girth. Thus, D-3 is correct. (NCERT Page 168, Para 2, Line 1-5; Chapter 5 context) E. Intercalary meristem: Found in grasses, it is responsible for the elongation of internodes and is part of primary growth, allowing parts removed by grazing to regenerate. Thus, E-5 is correct. (Chapter 5 context, implied by primary growth in grasses) Based on these matches, the correct option is C The tested concept is the classification and functions of different meristematic tissues.