BIOMOLECULES AND ENZYMES

Detailed explanation-1: -In a newly-published article in Science, the researchers say the young plant’s sun-tracking (also called heliotropism) can be explained by circadian rhythms – the behavioral changes tied to an internal clock that humans also have, which follow a roughly 24 hour cycle.

Detailed explanation-2: -Here we show that heliotropism in the common sunflower, Helianthus annuus, is generated by the coordinate action of light-signaling pathways and the circadian clock and enhances plant performance in the natural environment.

Detailed explanation-3: -Floral heliotropism is controlled by motor cells located just below the flower head. These cells move potassium ions between adjacent cells – drawing potassium in and expanding while in shade, and pushing potassium out and retracting in the sun.

Detailed explanation-4: -Solar tracking in the common sunflower, Helianthus annuus, is a dramatic example of a diurnal rhythm in plants. During the day, the shoot apex continuously reorients, following the sun’s relative position so that the developing heads track from east to west.