To explore how hormones function, researchers have begun to transform plants with particular genes. In one experiment, a gene involved in cytokinin synthesis was introduced into tobacco plants. Which one of the following results would be expected? a. Individuals produced more lateral branches. b. Stems grew extremely tall and slender. c. Roots were incapable of responding to gravity. d. Stomata were closed most of the time.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the question. The question is asking about the expected result of introducing a gene involved in cytokinin synthesis into tobacco plants. Cytokinins are a type of plant hormone that promote cell division and growth.
2. Step 2: Review the options. Option a suggests that the plants would produce more lateral branches. Option b suggests that the stems would grow extremely tall and slender. Option c suggests that the roots would be incapable of responding to gravity. Option d suggests that the stomata would be closed most of the time.
3. Step 3: Recall what you know about cytokinins. Cytokinins are known to promote branching in plants. They do this by stimulating the growth of lateral buds, which are the beginnings of branches.
4. Step 4: Apply your knowledge to the options. Given what we know about cytokinins, the most likely result of introducing a gene involved in cytokinin synthesis into tobacco plants would be that the plants produce more lateral branches.
5. Step 5: Choose the correct answer. Based on our understanding of cytokinins and their role in plant growth, the correct answer is option a: Individuals produced more lateral branches.

Key Concepts

Cytokinins

Cytokinins are a class of plant hormones that promote cell division and growth, particularly in the shoot and root systems. They play a crucial role in regulating various aspects of plant development, including the formation of lateral branches and the delay of leaf senescence. By introducing genes that enhance cytokinin synthesis, researchers can manipulate plant growth patterns, leading to observable changes in morphology.

Lateral Branching

Lateral branching refers to the growth of side shoots from the main stem of a plant. This process is influenced by hormonal signals, particularly cytokinins and auxins. Increased cytokinin levels typically promote the development of lateral branches, allowing plants to become bushier and more robust, which can enhance their ability to capture light and resources.

Plant Hormone Interaction

Plant hormones interact in complex ways to regulate growth and development. For instance, cytokinins often work in conjunction with auxins, another group of hormones, to balance root and shoot growth. Understanding these interactions is essential for predicting the outcomes of genetic modifications, such as those involving cytokinin synthesis, and their effects on plant structure and function.