Before You Begin
Question #46812
The Question
A researcher applies an abnormally high concentration of Gibberellic Acid () to a dicot stem to maximize wood yield. Initially, the cambial ring exhibits massive expansion, but within weeks, the stem undergoes structural collapse and the plant wilts. Based on the principles of secondary growth and cellular differentiation, which of the following best explains this vascular failure?
Options
- A.
The rate of meristematic division in the vascular cambium outpaces redifferentiation, resulting in tracheary elements lacking lignified secondary walls.
- B.
High levels antagonize auxin, completely inhibiting the dedifferentiation of medullary ray cells into interfascicular cambium.
- C.
The hyperactive cambial ring exclusively produces secondary phloem towards the periphery, crushing the primary xylem and halting water transport.
- D.
Excessive gibberellin triggers the premature conversion of sapwood into heartwood, occluding the vessels with tyloses and resins.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
Vascular_Cambium|Interfascicular_Cambium|Gibberellin
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
The 'Conceptual Pivot' lies in distinguishing between cell division (proliferation) and redifferentiation (maturation).
Students often assume that increased cambial activity automatically equals more wood (xylem).
This question forces them to recognize that without the time-dependent process of lignification during redifferentiation, rapid division leads to structural weakness, not strength.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Anatomy of Flowering Plants - Class 11 |
| Concept | Cambial Ring Formation |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |