15.2 A2 Level

Control and coordination in

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Key Concept Flip

Describe the mechanism by which the Venus flytrap rapidly closes upon stimulation.

Answer Flip

Stimulation of trigger hairs causes an action potential that propagates across the leaf lobes. This triggers rapid turgor pressure changes in cells at the hinge, causing the lobes to snap shut, trapping the insect.

Key Concept Flip

Explain how auxin promotes cell elongation in plant shoots.

Answer Flip

Auxin stimulates proton (H+) pumps in the plasma membrane, acidifying the cell wall. This activates expansins, enzymes that loosen cellulose microfibrils, allowing the cell to expand due to turgor pressure.

Key Concept Flip

What is the role of gibberellin in barley seed germination?

Answer Flip

Gibberellin stimulates the aleurone layer to produce amylase. Amylase hydrolyzes starch stored in the endosperm into glucose, providing energy for the growing embryo.

Definition Flip

What is the function of 'expansins' during cell elongation?

Answer Flip

Expansins are enzymes that loosen the bonds between cellulose microfibrils in the plant cell wall. This allows the cell wall to become more flexible and stretchable, facilitating cell expansion.

Key Concept Flip

Describe the sequence of events that lead to the closure of the Venus flytrap leaf lobes when a fly lands on it.

Answer Flip

Fly lands, stimulating trigger hairs --> Action potential generated --> Turgor pressure change in hinge cells --> Rapid closure of trap.

Key Concept Flip

Explain the relationship between acidification of the cell wall and cell elongation.

Answer Flip

Acidification of the cell wall by proton pumps activates expansins. Expansins loosen cellulose microfibrils. This makes the cell wall more flexible, allowing it to expand under turgor pressure, resulting in cell elongation.

Definition Flip

What cells are involved in the gibberellin-mediated breakdown of starch in a barley seed?

Answer Flip

Gibberellin produced by the embryo stimulates the aleurone layer to synthesize and secrete amylase. Amylase then hydrolyzes starch in the endosperm.

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