Key Differences Between Meristematic and Permanent Tissues
Meristematic and permanent tissues are two crucial types of plant tissues with distinct functions and structures. Meristematic tissue consists of undifferentiated cells that can divide and form new tissues. In contrast, permanent tissue is made up of differentiated cells that no longer divide. Meristematic tissues are responsible for plant growth, while permanent tissues serve various functions, such as support, storage, and photosynthesis. The key difference lies in their ability to divide and their cell characteristics.
Table: Key Differences Between Meristematic and Permanent Tissues
Essential Study Materials for NEET UG Success
FAQs on Difference Between Meristematic Tissue and Permanent Tissue
1. What is the difference between meristematic tissue and permanent tissue?
Meristematic tissue consists of cells that can divide and generate new cells, while permanent tissue is made up of cells that have already differentiated and can no longer divide.
2. What is permanent tissue?
Permanent tissue refers to plant tissue that consists of differentiated cells that perform specific functions such as storage, support, and photosynthesis.
3. What is the difference between meristematic tissue and epidermal tissue?
Meristematic tissue helps in growth and is located at growth points like tips of roots and shoots, while epidermal tissue forms the outer protective layer of the plant.
4. What is one similarity between permanent and meristematic tissue?
Both meristematic and permanent tissues are vital for plant growth, with meristematic tissue providing new cells and permanent tissue supporting the structure and function of the plant.
5. How do meristematic tissues form permanent tissues? What is this process known as?
Meristematic tissues form permanent tissues through a process known as differentiation, where undifferentiated cells mature and take on specific roles in the plant.
6. What are the different types of meristematic tissue and their functions?
The three main types of meristematic tissue are:
Apical meristem: Found at the tips of roots and shoots, responsible for primary growth (lengthening).
Lateral meristem: Located in the vascular and cork cambium, it contributes to secondary growth (thickness).
Intercalary meristem: Found at the base of leaves or internodes, it helps with the regeneration of leaves and stems.
7. Is meristematic tissue considered permanent?
No, meristematic tissue is not considered permanent. It is made of undifferentiated cells that have the ability to divide and form new tissues, unlike permanent tissue, which consists of differentiated cells that do not divide.
8. What is one similarity between permanent and meristematic tissue?
Both meristematic and permanent tissues are essential for plant growth and survival. While meristematic tissue is involved in the creation of new cells, permanent tissue supports the plant and performs specific functions.
9. What is the difference between meristematic tissue and epidermal tissue?
Meristematic tissue consists of actively dividing cells that contribute to plant growth, while epidermal tissue forms the outermost layer of cells that protect the plant from environmental stress and water loss.
10. What is the key difference between meristematic tissue and permanent tissue in terms of cell structure?
Meristematic tissue contains undifferentiated, small cells with dense cytoplasm and prominent nuclei, whereas permanent tissue consists of differentiated cells, which can be living (e.g., parenchyma) or non-living (e.g., sclerenchyma), with larger cells and sometimes vacuoles.
