Question

Cells in the meristematic phase exhibit all of the given characteristics, except-

• A. high metabolic rate
• B. prominent nucleus
• C. thin cellulosic cell walls
• D. intercellular spaces

Answer 1

The correct option is D

intercellular spaces

The correct option is D

Explanation of the correct option:

1. Meristematic cells are actively dividing cells located in the different locations of the plant body.
2. Meristematic cells help in primary (apical, intercalary, lateral meristem) and secondary (vascular cork cambium) growth in plants.
3. Meristematic cells are characterized by -
   1. Compactly arranged cells with no intercellular spaces.
   2. dense cytoplasm with the nucleus.
   3. These cells are isodiametric with thin cellulosic cell walls.
   4. They are the most metabolically active cells in plants.

Explanation of the incorrect option:

Option A:

Meristematic cells have a high metabolic rate as it is responsible for division.

Option B:

Meristematic cells have dense cytoplasm and nucleus.

Option C:

Meristematic tissues are thin, containing cellulose in their cell walls.

Final answer: Cells in the meristematic phase exhibit all of the given characteristics, except intercellular spaces.