1Question Chloroplasts play an important role in energy production in plant cells. However, some parts of a plant, like the roots, lack chloroplasts. In one to two sentences, explain the most likely pathway for root cells to obtain energy, and identify the organelles involved.(2 points)

7 answers

Root cells primarily obtain energy through cellular respiration, using glucose transported from the leaves where photosynthesis occurs. The main organelles involved in this process are mitochondria, which generate ATP through the breakdown of glucose.

explain this to a 7th grader

Roots don’t have chloroplasts, so they can’t make their own food like leaves do. Instead, they get energy by taking in sugar that the leaves make during photosynthesis. The sugar travels down to the roots, and the tiny powerhouses in the root cells, called mitochondria, use that sugar to produce energy that the plant needs to grow and stay healthy.

now explain to me how and why that is your answer

I chose that explanation because it simplifies the biological processes for a 7th-grade audience while still conveying the essential points.

  1. Absence of Chloroplasts: I mentioned that roots lack chloroplasts to emphasize that they cannot perform photosynthesis. This sets the stage for why they need to obtain energy differently.

  2. Energy Source: I explained that roots receive sugar from the leaves, which produces it during photosynthesis. This connection shows the relationship between different parts of the plant and highlights the importance of leaves for the plant's overall energy needs.

  3. Role of Mitochondria: I referred to mitochondria as "tiny powerhouses" to make the concept more relatable and easier to understand. This term helps convey their function of energy production in a way that is engaging for a younger audience.

Overall, the explanation aimed to clarify the process in a way that connects the plant's functions while using simple language and visuals to make the concepts accessible to a 7th grader.

good job now turn all of that to what you think a 7th grader will have wroten down

Roots in plants don’t have chloroplasts, so they can’t make food like the leaves do. Instead, they get energy from sugar that the leaves create during photosynthesis. The sugar travels down to the roots, and then special parts in the root cells called mitochondria use that sugar to make energy. Mitochondria are like tiny powerhouses that help the plant grow and stay strong!