4.1 – Systems in Plants Flowering plants have two body systems 1) The Root System 2) The Shoot System.

The Root System Function – is to anchor the plant, absorb water and minerals from the soil, and store food. Roots are a useful source of foods (sweet potatoes, carrots, sugar beet), flavourings (liquorice, ginger), fibres (used in basketry) and a variety of natural remedies.

The Shoot System Involves stems, leaves, and flowers (when present) Two main functions 1) To conduct photosynthesis 2) To produce flowers for sexual reproduction

The Leaf Responsible for photosynthesis (to produce food for the plant). The formula for photosynthesis is: chlorophyll Light energy + carbon dioxide + water glucose + oxygen

Photosynthesis takes place in the chloroplasts which are flat, disc-like structures called thylakoids. Stacks of thylakoids are called grana. Some leaves are also adapted for support, protection, reproduction, and attraction. Leaves have many uses: food (lettuce, spinach, onion, tea, and herbs), sources of waxes and medicines, nutrition for livestock.

The Flower Specialized structures developed for sexual reproduction. Male reproductive structures produce pollen grains while female reproductive structures produce eggs. Eggs are fertilized by pollen.

In most flowering plants, the seeds are contained within a specialized structure called a fruit. Pollination occurs with the help of wind or animals. Rice, wheat, corn, vanilla, chocolate, coffee, bananas, apples, mangos, cotton, and some medicines come from flowers.

The Stem Support the branches, leaves, and flowers and transports materials to and from the roots, leaves, and flowers. Some are specialized for food storage, protection, photosynthesis, and reproduction. Stems have a number of uses: food (sugar cane, potatoes), wood and paper products, cork, linen, and a variety of medicines. The various parts of plants work together to perform all of the functions necessary to keep the plant alive.