A Level Biology Practice Exam

Which of the following correctly describes a characteristic of stem cells in meristematic tissue?

1. They can only divide and form one specific tissue type.

2. They are capable of differentiating into various cell types.

3. They are destructively altered upon division.

4. They exist only during seed germination.

The correct answer is: They are capable of differentiating into various cell types.

The characteristic of stem cells in meristematic tissue that accurately describes their function is their ability to differentiate into various cell types. This plasticity is crucial for plant growth and development, as meristematic cells are responsible for forming different tissues as needed, such as xylem, phloem, and parenchyma, depending on the signals they receive from the surrounding cells and tissues. This ability allows plants to adapt to varying environmental conditions and continue growth throughout their life cycle. Unlike specified or differentiated cells, meristematic cells retain the capacity to transform into any required tissue, which is central to the regenerative capabilities of plants. In the context of the other options, stem cells in meristematic tissue do not limit their division to a single type of tissue, nor are they destructively altered upon division; instead, they remain intact and capable of further division. Moreover, they do not only exist during seed germination, as they are present in various parts of the plant throughout its lifecycle, contributing to ongoing growth.