/*! This file is auto-generated */ .wp-block-button__link{color:#fff;background-color:#32373c;border-radius:9999px;box-shadow:none;text-decoration:none;padding:calc(.667em + 2px) calc(1.333em + 2px);font-size:1.125em}.wp-block-file__button{background:#32373c;color:#fff;text-decoration:none} Problem 38 A pulse of radioactive carbon di... [FREE SOLUTION] | 91Ó°ÊÓ

91Ó°ÊÓ

A pulse of radioactive carbon dioxide (CO2) is provided to isolated leaves. In which tissue would you expect to see radioactive glucose appear first? a. in the cells of the mesophyll b. in the sieve elements of the phloem c. epidermis d. vessels of the xylem

Short Answer

Expert verified
a. in the cells of the mesophyll

Step by step solution

01

- Understand the Process

When radioactive carbon dioxide (CO2) is provided to leaves, photosynthesis converts the CO2 into glucose. Understanding where photosynthesis primarily occurs in the leaf will help identify where radioactive glucose appears first.
02

- Identify Photosynthesis Location

Photosynthesis occurs mainly in the mesophyll cells of the leaf. These cells contain a high concentration of chloroplasts, which are the site of photosynthesis.
03

- Analyze the Options

Consider each option: a. Mesophyll cells - where photosynthesis happens. b. Sieve elements of the phloem - responsible for transporting sugars made in photosynthesis. c. Epidermis - provides protection and does not photosynthesize. d. Vessels of the xylem - involved in water and nutrient transport, not photosynthesis.
04

- Determine the Correct Answer

Since photosynthesis happens in the mesophyll cells, the radioactive glucose produced should first appear there.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with 91Ó°ÊÓ!

Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

Mesophyll Cells
Mesophyll cells are a vital component in plant leaves. These cells are found in the middle layer of the leaf, which is called the mesophyll. The primary role of mesophyll cells is to facilitate photosynthesis.
Mesophyll cells are packed with chloroplasts. Chloroplasts are organelles that house chlorophyll, the green pigment necessary for capturing light energy.
This captured light energy is then used to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. Because of their central role in photosynthesis, mesophyll cells are often the first site where glucose production can be detected.
Understanding the structure and function of mesophyll cells is key to grasping how plants produce energy and sustain their growth and functions.
Chloroplasts
Chloroplasts play a crucial role in the photosynthesis process. These organelles are abundant in mesophyll cells, enabling these cells to efficiently capture sunlight.
Chloroplasts contain chlorophyll, which absorbs light energy. This energy is then used in a series of reactions to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose.
Chloroplasts have their own DNA and can replicate independently within the cell. They are structured with inner and outer membranes, encapsulating the stroma and thylakoid membranes where light-dependent and light-independent reactions take place, respectively.
Because of their essential role in capturing and converting energy, chloroplasts are often considered the powerhouses of plant cells.
Glucose Production
Glucose production is a fundamental outcome of photosynthesis. During this process, plants convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen using the energy from sunlight.
This process mainly occurs in the chloroplasts within mesophyll cells. The produced glucose serves as an essential energy source for plants.
Glucose is either used immediately in cellular respiration to produce ATP or stored as starch for later use. It is also transported to other parts of the plant via the phloem, supporting growth and development.
Understanding glucose production offers insight into how plants harness energy and sustain themselves, forming a critical link in the food chain.
Plant Tissue Functions
Plant tissues have specialized functions that contribute to the plant's overall ability to survive and thrive.
Key plant tissues include:
  • Mesophyll cells: Where photosynthesis occurs.
  • Phloem: Transports glucose and other nutrients throughout the plant.
  • Epidermis: Protects against water loss, injury, and infection.
  • Xylem: Conducts water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant.
Each tissue type is crucial for the plant's health:
- The mesophyll’s role in photosynthesis directly impacts the plant’s energy production.
- The phloem’s transport of glucose ensures nutrients reach all parts of the plant.
- The epidermis acts as a barrier, safeguarding internal tissues.
- The xylem supports water distribution, vital for photosynthesis and nutrient uptake.
Understanding these tissue functions helps explain how plants maintain balance and sustainability in their environments.

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

Some desert plants have taproots that extend up to 20-30 feet underground. Others have fibrous root systems that cover wide areas. What are the advantages of a deep taproot and the advantages of a fibrous root system in a desert? a. A deep taproot can reach the deeper soil regions that stay moist after several rainfalls. A shallow fibrous system provides additional support to anchor the plant in the desert. b. A deep taproot provides additional support to anchor the plant in the desert. A shallow fibrous system increases the amount of water that can be absorbed after a light rainfall when the soil dries quickly in the desert. c. A deep taproot increases the amount of water that can be absorbed after a light rainfall when the soil dries quickly in the desert. A shallow fibrous system can reach the deeper soil regions that stay moist after several rainfalls. d. A deep taproot can reach the deeper soil regions that stay moist after several rainfalls. A shallow fibrous system increases the amount of water that can be absorbed after a light rainfall when the soil dries quickly in the desert.

A section of buttercup root is stained with iodine, which stains starch blue. Where would you expect to find the blue granules indicative of starch? a. parenchymal cells of the cortex b. cells of phloem c. cells of the epidermis d. cells of the endodermis and pericycle

How is a leaf different from a leaflet? a. A leaf petiole attaches directly to the stem at a bud node, whereas a leaflet petiole is attached to the main petiole or the midrib, not the stem. b. A leaf has reticulate venation whereas leaflets show parallel venation. c. A leaf petiole attaches to the main petiole or the midrib, not the stem, whereas a leaflet petiole attaches directly to the stem at a bud node. d. A leaf has parallel venation whereas leaflets show reticulate venation.

Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is an important step in the development of xylem. How does apoptosis contribute to xylem development?

Stomata close in response to bacterial infection. This response is a defense mechanism because it ________ , and the hormone involved is ________ . a. restricts the entry of O2; gibberellin b. restricts the entry of CO2; abscisic acid c. prevents further entry of pathogens; auxin d. prevents further entry of pathogens; abscisic acid

See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Biology Textbooks

View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.