The following questions are based on the drawing of root or stem cross sections shown in Figure 35.2.

Figure 35.2
-"Totipotency" is a term used to describe the ability of a cell to give rise to a complete new organism. In plants, this means that
A)plant development is not under genetic control.
B)the cells of shoots and the cells of roots have different genes.
C)cell differentiation depends largely on the control of gene expression.
D)a cell's environment has no effect on its differentiation.
E)sexual reproduction is not necessary in plants.

Question

The following questions are based on the drawing of root or stem cross sections shown in Figure 35.2.
  
Figure 35.2
-"Totipotency" is a term used to describe the ability of a cell to give rise to a complete new organism. In plants, this means that
A)plant development is not under genetic control. 
B)the cells of shoots and the cells of roots have different genes. 
C)cell differentiation depends largely on the control of gene expression. 
D)a cell's environment has no effect on its differentiation. 
E)sexual reproduction is not necessary in plants.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ability of a cell to give rise to a complete new organism is a function of its totipotency, which is regulated by the expression of certain genes. In plants, cell differentiation and development are highly dependent on gene expression, as well as environmental and hormonal cues. Therefore, choice C is the best answer. Choices A, B, D, and E are all incorrect, as they do not accurately describe the way totipotency functions in plants.

The Following Questions Are Based on the Drawing of Root