Q5. Where does a leaf develop, and what does it bear in its axil?
A leaf develops at a node and bears a bud in its axil, which later develops into a branch (NCERT page 59).
Q6. What does the stem bear on it, according to NCERT’s description of the stem?
Branches, leaves, flowers and fruits; it also bears nodes, internodes and buds (NCERT page 59).
Q7. Assertion: the potato is a stem. Reason: it grows under the ground. Are both true, and does the reason explain the assertion?
Both are true, but the reason does not explain the assertion: roots also grow underground. NCERT page 68 calls the potato an underground stem; it is a stem because it bears nodes and buds.
Q8. List three morphological features that help to tell a stem from a root.
The presence of nodes and internodes, multicellular hair, and positively phototropic nature (NCERT Summary, page 69).
Q9. What are photosynthates, and which organ carries them?
The food made in photosynthesis; the stem conducts them, along with water and minerals (NCERT page 59; the definition is beyond the NCERT text).
Q10. Branches grow from axillary buds. Where do lateral roots start?
Inside the root, in the pericycle (NCERT Chapter 6, page 74).
Q11. What covers a root’s apex, and what is at a stem’s apex?
A root cap; a terminal bud (NCERT page 59).
Q12. How do root hairs and stem hairs differ?
Root hairs are unicellular; stem hairs are usually multicellular (NCERT Chapter 6, page 72).