Question

Question 53
List the characteristics of cork. How are they formed? Mention their role.

Answer 1

a) Characteristics: Cells of cork are dead at maturity.These cells are compactly arranged These cells do not possess intercellular spaces. They however have a chemical substance called suberin in their walls, they are several layers thick.
b) As plants grow older, a strip of secondary meristem replaces the epidermis of the stem. Cells left on the outer side by this meristem are called cork cells.
c) They are protective in function, for older stems/twigs/branches. They are impervious to gas and water.