Which of the following parts of a plant contains the dividing tissue region that helps in growth?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (C) Apical meristem

Explanation:
• Plant tissues are broadly divided into meristematic tissue (dividing cells) and permanent tissue (non-dividing cells).
• Meristematic tissues are responsible for the continuous growth of plants throughout their lifecycle.
• The apical meristem is located exactly at the growing tips of roots and stems. By rapidly dividing, it increases the length of the stem and the root (a process known as primary growth).

Information Booster:
• Lateral Meristem: Located along the sides of stems and roots (e.g., vascular cambium, cork cambium), this tissue is responsible for increasing the girth or thickness of the plant (secondary growth).
• Intercalary Meristem: Found at the base of leaves or internodes (e.g., in grasses), helping the stem or leaves grow in length rapidly after being grazed by animals.

Additional Knowledge:
• Option A (Sieve tube): A component of the phloem tissue, which is a complex permanent tissue responsible for the translocation of food (sugars) throughout the plant. It does not divide.
• Option B (Sclerenchyma): A simple permanent tissue composed of dead cells with thick lignified walls, providing structural stiffness and mechanical support (e.g., coconut husk).
• Option D (Vessel): A component of xylem tissue, primarily a dead tube responsible for conducting water and minerals from roots to leaves.