OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

What type of cells do meristems produce?

1. Specialized cells for photosynthesis

2. Undifferentiated cells that can develop into other cell types

3. Dead cells for structural support

4. Mature cells that transport water

The correct answer is: Undifferentiated cells that can develop into other cell types

Meristems are regions of undifferentiated cells in plants that have the capacity to divide and give rise to various types of cells. These undifferentiated cells, known as meristematic cells, can develop into specialized cells and contribute to the growth of roots, stems, leaves, and other plant structures. They are essential for both primary growth (lengthening of the plant) and secondary growth (thickening of stems and roots). This ability to form various cell types is crucial for the plant's adaptability and ongoing development throughout its life cycle. The other options refer to specific cell types or functions that occur later in the plant's development. For instance, specialized cells for photosynthesis are typically chloroplast-containing cells found in the leaves, dead cells provide structural support and are involved in processes like the formation of wood (such as in xylem tissue), and mature cells that transport water are primarily xylem cells once they have differentiated from meristematic cells. Therefore, the primary role of meristems aligns clearly with the production of undifferentiated cells that can develop into many different types of cells as the plant grows.