[Campbell Biology P.816] Which of the following accurately describes the fate of daughter ce... | Practice Question

Which of the following accurately describes the fate of daughter cells produced by the division of apical meristem cells?

  • A: All daughter cells immediately differentiate into mature tissues, ceasing further division.
  • B: Some daughter cells remain undifferentiated to maintain the meristem population, while others become primary meristem cells that then differentiate into mature tissues.
  • C: All daughter cells immediately form secondary xylem and phloem, contributing to thickness.
  • D: Daughter cells move to the root cap to protect the meristem from abrasion.

Explanation

The text states: 'When they divide, some daughter cells remain in the apical meristem, ensuring a continuing population of undifferentiated cells. Other daughter cells become partly differentiated as primary meristem cells. After dividing and growing in length, they become fully differentiated cells in the mature tissues.' This matches option B.