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

What are the only plant cells that divide by mitosis?

1. Vascular cells

2. Meristems

3. Root cells

4. Leaf cells

The correct answer is: Meristems

Mitosis is the process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells, and in plants, this typically occurs in specific regions known as meristems. Meristems are areas of undifferentiated cells capable of division and growth, allowing plants to continue growing throughout their life. This is vital for changes in plant morphology, such as the formation of new leaves, flowers, and roots. Vascular cells, root cells, and leaf cells generally do not undergo mitosis as frequently. Vascular cells become specialized for transporting water and nutrients, while root cells and leaf cells perform specific functions like absorption and photosynthesis. Once these cells differentiate, they enter a phase where they do not typically divide. Thus, meristems are unique because they retain the ability to divide and produce new cells, making them essential for plant growth and adaptation.