The Question is from neet-botany anatomy-of-flowering-plants parenchyma, and it was created by the author K SURESH KUMAR

Question

In which specific region of the plant would you LEAST expect to find parenchyma cells actively involved in photosynthesis?

K SURESH KUMAR · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: C
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
 **Primary Concept**: Plant cell types and their functions
 **Related Topics**: Photosynthesis, plant anatomy, parenchyma cells
 **Prerequisites**: Basic understanding of plant tissues and their locations.
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
The question asks where parenchyma cells are LEAST likely to be involved in photosynthesis.

**Method & Steps**:
1. **Identify photosynthetically active regions:** Photosynthesis primarily occurs in chloroplasts, which are abundant in cells exposed to sunlight.  The mesophyll of leaves is the main site of photosynthesis.
  Reasoning: Chloroplasts are the organelles responsible for photosynthesis, and they are concentrated in the mesophyll of leaves.
  Formula/Rule: None directly applicable.
2. **Consider other locations:** Parenchyma cells are found throughout the plant. However, the cortex of stems, outer layers of herbaceous stems, and even the root cortex can contain some chloroplasts, allowing for some photosynthesis. However, the amount is significantly less compared to leaves.
  Working:  The root cap is a protective layer at the tip of the root. It is underground, shielded from sunlight, and its primary function is protection, not photosynthesis.
  Key Point: The root cap's primary function is to protect the apical meristem during root growth through the soil.
3. **Compare photosynthetic activity:**  The root cap is the only option where photosynthesis is virtually absent due to the lack of light penetration.
  Result: Root cap (option C) is the correct answer.
  Verification:  All other options (mesophyll, stem cortex, outer stem layers) are exposed to light to varying degrees and therefore have the potential for some photosynthetic activity.
 ## OPTION ANALYSIS
A :x: Mesophyll cells in leaves are highly specialized for photosynthesis.
B :x: The cortex of stems can contain some chloroplasts and perform some photosynthesis, especially in young stems.
 C ✓: The root cap is underground and does not receive sunlight, thus it is not involved in photosynthesis.
D :x: The outer layers of herbaceous stems can perform some photosynthesis, especially in young stems.
 ## LEARNING AIDS
 **Common Mistakes**:
  1. Confusing parenchyma function: Students may incorrectly assume parenchyma cells are never involved in photosynthesis.
   How to avoid:  Remember that parenchyma cells are versatile and can perform various functions depending on their location.
  2. Overlooking the role of light:  Students may not fully appreciate the crucial role of light in photosynthesis.
   How to avoid: Emphasize that photosynthesis requires light, and therefore regions devoid of light cannot support significant photosynthetic activity.
 **Quick Tips**:
  1. Focus on light availability: The location of the plant part relative to sunlight is key to determining photosynthetic activity.
  2. Remember root cap function: The root cap protects the root apical meristem and is not involved in photosynthesis.

K SURESH KUMAR · Answer

Mesophyll of leaves

K SURESH KUMAR · Answer

Cortex of stem

K SURESH KUMAR · Answer

The correct Option is "Root cap"

K SURESH KUMAR · Answer

Outer layers of herbaceous stems

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