Explain how meristem tissue enables a plant to grow. In your answer, refer to both cell division and cell differentiation.
Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).
Model answer (5 marks)
Meristem tissue contains undifferentiated stem cells.
These stem cells divide by mitosis, producing genetically identical daughter cells.
The daughter cells then undergo cell differentiation to become specialised cell types.
During differentiation the cells elongate, allowing the plant to increase in size and length.
Thus, meristem tissue supplies new cells through mitosis and directs their differentiation and elongation, enabling continuous plant growth.
These stem cells divide by mitosis, producing genetically identical daughter cells.
The daughter cells then undergo cell differentiation to become specialised cell types.
During differentiation the cells elongate, allowing the plant to increase in size and length.
Thus, meristem tissue supplies new cells through mitosis and directs their differentiation and elongation, enabling continuous plant growth.
Examiner tips
- Use the exact terms: meristem, undifferentiated stem cells, mitosis, genetically identical, cell differentiation, cell elongation.
- Show the causal chain: stem cells → mitosis → identical cells → differentiation → elongation → growth.
- Keep each point short and to the point to fit the 5‑mark limit.
Common mistakes
- Confusing mitosis with meiosis or not mentioning that the cells are genetically identical.
- Omitting the role of cell elongation or mixing up differentiation with division.
- Using vague language such as ‘new cells’ without specifying mitosis or differentiation.
Mark scheme (5 marks)
- Meristem tissue contains undifferentiated stem cells
- These stem cells divide by mitosis
- Mitosis produces genetically identical daughter cells
- The new cells then undergo cell differentiation to become specialised cell types
- Cell elongation allows the plant to increase in size / length
Key terms in this question
meristem tissue · cell differentiation
Related
- All Pearson Edexcel A-Level Biology A (9BI0) revision notes →
- How to answer a "Explain" question →
- Decode the mark scheme abbreviations →
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