compare source cells with sink cells in plants , giving examples for each

Answer 1

Source cells in plants are responsible for the production and transportation of sugars, whereas sink cells in plants store and use these sugars. Here are examples of source and sink cells in plants.

1. Source cells:
- Leaves: Leaf cells contain chloroplasts, which capture sunlight energy and perform photosynthesis, producing sugars (glucose) through the conversion of carbon dioxide and water. These sugars are synthesized in the source cells of leaves.
- Green stems: In certain plants, green stems can also act as a source of sugars. Photosynthesis occurs in the green tissues of these stems.

2. Sink cells:
- Roots: The cells of the root system are important sink cells. They receive sugars produced in the source cells and store them for later use. Roots store and use sugars to support their growth and to provide energy for uptake of water and minerals from the soil.
- Fruits: Fruits are major sink organs in flowering plants. After sugars are produced in the source cells through photosynthesis, they are transported to the developing fruits where they are accumulated as a form of energy reserve. Examples include apples, oranges, and grapes.
- Tubers/bulbs: Underground storage organs, such as potatoes (tubers) or onions (bulbs), act as sugar sink cells. These organs accumulate sugars and store them to support the growth of new shoots during the next growing season.
- Seeds: During seed development, sugars are transported from the source cells and stored in the endosperm or cotyledons. This stored energy serves as nourishment for the germinating seedling.