Question

Write one main function of Xylem in plants.
In which organ of the body is Copper replaced?
On which plant did Mendel perform his experiment?
Give examples of homologous organs.

Hint:

- Xylem is primarily responsible for water transport in plants. - Copper is stored and regulated by the liver in the human body. - Mendel's experiments on pea plants laid the foundation for modern genetics. - Homologous organs suggest a common evolutionary origin but have adapted to perform different functions.

Answer 1

(i) Main Function of Xylem in Plants:
Xylem is responsible for the transport of water and minerals from the roots to the leaves and other parts of the plant. It also provides structural support. \[ \text{Function of Xylem:} \quad \text{Water and mineral conduction, and support.} \]
(ii) In Which Organ of the Body is Copper Replaced?
Copper is an essential trace element in the human body, and it is primarily stored in the liver. Copper plays an important role in several biological processes, such as the formation of red blood cells and the absorption of iron. The liver stores and regulates the copper levels in the body.

(iii) On Which Plant Did Mendel Perform His Experiment?
Mendel performed his famous experiments on the inheritance of traits using the pea plant (\( \text{Pisum sativum} \)). He chose pea plants because they had easily observable traits, such as flower color and seed shape, and could be crossbred to study inheritance patterns.
(iv) Give Examples of Homologous Organs:
Homologous organs are organs that have a similar structure but perform different functions. These organs share a common evolutionary origin. Examples of homologous organs include:
- Forelimbs of Humans, Bats, and Whales: These have similar bone structures but serve different functions like grasping, flying, and swimming, respectively.
- Wings of Birds and Forelimbs of Humans: Although they perform different functions, they share a similar bone structure, indicating a common ancestry.