Plant Physiology

Plant Physiology (Biology 327) - Dr. Stephen G. Saupe; College of St. Benedict/ St. John's University; Biology Department; Collegeville, MN 56321; (320) 363 - 2782; (320) 363 - 3202, fax; ssaupe@csbsju.edu

Intro & Plant Way of Life Exam Questions

What is plant? What are some characteristics of a plant What is physiology? What is physiology? What do plant physiologists do? Why should we bother to study plant physiology?
The evolution of the autotrophic mode of nutrition by plants required the evolution of a variety of specialized structures for this process. Identify the problems and how plants solved them.
Non-motile organisms such as plants must be able to position themselves in their environment. Describe why and how plants do this. Cite specific examples including: mechanisms for increasing the odds of germinating in a favorable environment, positioning the axis (gravitropism); and fine-tuning mechanisms such thigmomorphogenesis, apical dominance, phototropism, skototropism, leaf mosaics, phyllotaxy, solar tracking, etc.
Describe and explain the mechanisms plants use to exploit the environment for resources. Cite specific examples such as dendritic form, indeterminate growth, asexual reproduction, and foraging strategies.
Surface-to-volume ratios are very important in biology. Explain what is meant by a S/V ratio and how they are influenced by size and shape. Give several examples of the importance of S/V ratios in biological systems, especially plants. Be sure to cite at least one example of the need to have a high S/V ratio and one example where a low S/V is important.
Compare and contrast plants and animals in terms of body design (architectural vs. mechanical design), mode of nutrition, evolutionary pressures for motility, reproduction, wastes and waste disposal. Support your conclusions (where pertinent) with references to non–motile animals such as the corals.
Non-motile organisms such as plants must protect themselves from a variety of physical and biological dangers in their environment. Identify the problems that confronts plants, some specific dangers, and how plants cope with this situation.
Are plants intelligent? Why might someone consider plants to be intelligent? Why might someone disagree? What do you think and why?