Prelims 2013 · Science and Technology · Question 41
Many transplanted seedlings do not grow because
Answer
most of the root hairs are lost during transplantation
- (a) New soil minerals are usually not the immediate cause of failure after transplantation. Seedlings mainly fail due to root injury, not instant mineral deficiency. Verdict: Incorrect.
- (b) Root hairs do not harm the plant by gripping soil too hard. They help in absorption of water and minerals. Verdict: Incorrect.
- (c) Root hairs are very delicate and are often damaged or lost during transplantation. This reduces water absorption, so many transplanted seedlings fail to establish. Verdict: Correct.
- (d) Leaf damage may occur, but it is not the main reason generally asked in plant physiology. The key problem is loss of root hairs. Verdict: Incorrect.