Question

Which of the following is not an example for plant growth?

• A. A plant of 1m in length becomes a 2m long plant
• B. Annual ring formation
• C. The length of a wooden log thrown in a river increases by 1 centimeter
• D. Formation of cambium

Answer 1

The correct option is C The length of a wooden log thrown in a river increases by 1 centimeter

Growth can be defined as a permanent or irreversible increase in the dry weight, size, mass or volume of a cell, organ or organism.

Increase in length is considered to be longitudinal or vertical growth in plants. This type of growth is owed to the meristematic tissues that are present at the growing apical portions of the plants. These tissues divide continuously and add to the vertical or longitudinal increment in the length of the plant. This is an example of growth.

Annual ring is formed due to the activity of the cambium. Cambium is known to be the reason behind the increase in girth of dicot plants. The increase in girth, also known as lateral growth or secondary growth in plants, can also be considered as an example of growth.

Formation of cambium is an example of growth since it leads to the increase in girth of dicot plants, which is also considered as lateral growth.

If a wooden log is thrown into a river, it will absorb water by a process called imbibition. There might be a slight increase in size and mass, but this is due to the absorption of water and not due to any internal changes. Moreover, this imbibition is reversible and the log shrinks back to its size upon drying. So, this cannot be considered as an example of growth.