AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Stems are a part of the shoot system of a plant. Their main function is to provide support to the plant, holding leaves, flowers and buds.

Detailed explanation-2: -Vascular bundles consist of phloem tissue, xylem tissue, and a layer called the cambium between them. Each vascular bundle is supported by a tough section of parenchyma and sclerenchyma tissue called the pericycle. Pith is the spongy storage tissue in the center of stems, also made up of parenchyma cells.

Detailed explanation-3: -Ground tissue helps support the stem and is called pith when it is located towards the middle of the stem and called the cortex when it is between the vascular tissue and the epidermis.

Detailed explanation-4: -It supports leaves, flowers and fruits, transports water and dissolved substances between the roots and the shoots in the xylem and phloem, stores nutrients, and produces new living tissue. The stem can also be called halm or haulm.

Detailed explanation-5: -A vascular plant consists of two organ systems: the shoot system and the root system. The shoot system includes the aboveground vegetative portions (stems and leaves) and reproductive parts (flowers and fruits). The root system supports the plant and is usually underground.