8.4

Translocation

10 flashcards to master Translocation

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Definition Flip

What is translocation in plants?

Answer Flip

Translocation is the movement of sucrose and amino acids within the phloem, from sources (where they are produced) to sinks (where they are used or stored).

Example: Sucrose produced in leaves is transported to growing roots or developing fruits.
Definition Flip

Define 'source' in the context of translocation.

Answer Flip

A 'source' is any part of a plant that releases sucrose or amino acids into the phloem for translocation.

Example: Mature leaves are sources during photosynthesis, exporting sucrose to other plant parts.
Definition Flip

Define 'sink' in the context of translocation.

Answer Flip

A 'sink' is any part of a plant that uses or stores sucrose or amino acids, receiving them from the phloem.

Example: Growing roots, developing fruits, and storage organs like potato tubers are sinks.
Key Concept Flip

Explain why a plant part can act as both a source and a sink at different times.

Answer Flip

A plant part's role can change depending on its developmental stage and the plant's needs.

Example: A developing leaf acts as a sink, importing sucrose, but later becomes a source as it photosynthesizes and exports sucrose.
Key Concept Flip

What substances are transported during translocation?

Answer Flip

The main substances transported during translocation are sucrose (a type of sugar) and amino acids. These are organic compounds vital for plant growth, respiration, and protein synthesis.

Example: These nutrients support growth of new shoots during spring.
Key Concept Flip

In what plant tissue does translocation occur?

Answer Flip

Translocation occurs specifically in the phloem tissue. The phloem consists of sieve tube elements and companion cells, which facilitate the transport of sugars and amino acids.

Example: Aphids feed on phloem sap due to its high sucrose content.
Key Concept Flip

What is the main form of sugar transported during translocation?

Answer Flip

Sucrose is the primary sugar transported during translocation. It's a non-reducing sugar, making it less reactive and thus suitable for long-distance transport within the plant.

Example: Sucrose is converted to starch for storage in potato tubers.
Key Concept Flip

Give an example of a storage organ acting as a sink and then a source.

Answer Flip

Potato tubers act as a sink, storing starch (converted from sucrose) during the growing season. In spring, the tuber becomes a source, converting starch back to sucrose to support new shoot growth.

Example: New potatoes are harvested during summer.
Key Concept Flip

Describe how sucrose is loaded into the phloem at the source.

Answer Flip

Sucrose is actively transported into the companion cells and then into the sieve tube elements of the phloem. This process requires energy (ATP) to maintain a high sucrose concentration in the phloem.

Example: Proton pumps maintain a gradient that facilitates sucrose entry.
Key Concept Flip

Describe how sucrose is unloaded from the phloem at the sink.

Answer Flip

Sucrose is unloaded at the sink cells, either passively (following a concentration gradient) or actively (requiring energy). Once unloaded, sucrose is either used for respiration, growth, or converted to starch for storage.

Example: Root cells use sucrose for respiration to uptake mineral ions from soil.

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8.3 Transpiration 9.1 Circulatory systems

Key Questions: Translocation

What is translocation in plants?

Translocation is the movement of sucrose and amino acids within the phloem, from sources (where they are produced) to sinks (where they are used or stored).

Example: Sucrose produced in leaves is transported to growing roots or developing fruits.
Define 'source' in the context of translocation.

A 'source' is any part of a plant that releases sucrose or amino acids into the phloem for translocation.

Example: Mature leaves are sources during photosynthesis, exporting sucrose to other plant parts.
Define 'sink' in the context of translocation.

A 'sink' is any part of a plant that uses or stores sucrose or amino acids, receiving them from the phloem.

Example: Growing roots, developing fruits, and storage organs like potato tubers are sinks.

About Translocation (8.4)

These 10 flashcards cover everything you need to know about Translocation for your Cambridge IGCSE Biology (0610) exam. Each card is designed based on the official syllabus requirements.

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