Question

The vascular cambium normally gives rise to :

• A. Primary phloem
• B. Secondary xylem
• C. Periderm
• D. Phelloderm

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The question requires us to identify which structure the vascular cambium gives rise to. To answer this question, we need to understand the concept of vascular cambium and its function in plant biology.

The vascular cambium is a type of lateral meristem in plants, which is responsible for secondary growth. Secondary growth results in the increase of the thickness or girth of the plant, particularly in roots and stems.

The vascular cambium forms two types of tissues:

1. Secondary Xylem: This is formed on the inner side of the vascular cambium. The secondary xylem is commonly referred to as wood.
2. Secondary Phloem: This is formed on the outer side of the vascular cambium. The secondary phloem works in the transportation of nutrients.

Based on the options provided, let's analyze each one:

1. Primary phloem
   : The primary phloem is produced by the apical meristem, not the vascular cambium.
2. Secondary xylem
   : As explained, this is directly formed by the vascular cambium, making this the correct option.
3. Periderm
   : This is a part of the outer covering of the plant stem and root that replaces the epidermis during secondary growth. It's formed by another meristem known as the cork cambium, not the vascular cambium.
4. Phelloderm
   : This is also a component of the periderm, derived from the cork cambium.

Therefore, the correct answer is Secondary xylem.