CAPF AC 2022 Q14: Science & Technology – Biology
- (a) Dense cytoplasm, thin cell wall, large nuclei and absence of vacuoles
- (b) Dense cytoplasm, thin cell wall, large nuclei and large vacuoles
- (c) Dense cytoplasm, thin cell wall, small nuclei and absence of vacuoles
- (d) Dense cytoplasm, thick cell wall, small nuclei and large vacuoles
Answer: (a) Dense cytoplasm, thin cell wall, large nuclei and absence of vacuoles
Explanation
Cells of a meristem
How to think: meristem cells have one job: to divide.
A cell that divides fast needs a big nucleus and plenty of cytoplasm.
It has no need to store anything, so it has no vacuoles.
| Feature | Meristematic cell | Mature (permanent) cell |
|---|---|---|
| Cytoplasm | Dense | Thin layer |
| Cell wall | Thin, of cellulose | Often thick |
| Nucleus | Large and prominent | Smaller in proportion |
| Vacuoles | Absent | Large central vacuole |
| Activity | Divides actively | Does not divide |
Where meristems are found: at the tips of roots and shoots (apical), along the sides (lateral, such as cambium) and at the base of leaves or internodes (intercalary).
Answer: (a).
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. Dense cytoplasm, thin walls, large nuclei and no vacuoles describe meristem cells.
- (b) Incorrect. Meristem cells lack vacuoles; large vacuoles belong to mature cells.
- (c) Incorrect. Their nuclei are large, not small.
- (d) Incorrect. Thick walls, small nuclei and large vacuoles describe mature cells.
Key point
NCERT Class IX: cells of meristematic tissue are very active, with dense cytoplasm, thin cellulose walls, prominent nuclei and no vacuoles. Types: apical, lateral, intercalary.
Remember
Meristem: dense cytoplasm, thin wall, big nucleus, no vacuole.
Common mistakes
- Giving meristem cells a large vacuole, a feature of mature plant cells.
- Choosing small nuclei, though dividing cells need a large nucleus.
- Thinking meristem cells have thick walls like sclerenchyma.
Exam tip
Educated guess: every option begins with dense cytoplasm, so look at the rest. A dividing cell needs a large nucleus and cannot afford space for vacuoles; only (a) has both.
Sources
- NCERT Class IX Science — Tissues (meristematic tissue)
- NCERT Class XI Biology — Anatomy of Flowering Plants