flowering plant
Definition
A flowering plant is a plant that produces flowers. Flowers are the reproductive organs of flowering plants, and they are responsible for producing seeds.
Flowering plants are a diverse group of plants, and they come in all shapes and sizes. Some flowering plants are small and delicate, while others are large and impressive. Some flowering plants have a single colour, while others have multiple colours.
The different parts of a flower have different functions. The sepals are the outermost parts of the flower, and they protect the flower bud before it blooms. The petals are the colourful parts of the flower, and they attract insects and other pollinators. The stamens are the male parts of the flower, and they produce pollen. The pistil is the female part of the flower, and it contains the ovules, which will become seeds.
The process of pollination is essential for flowering plants to reproduce. When pollen lands on the pistil, it fertilizes the ovules, which then develop into seeds. The seeds will eventually fall to the ground and grow into new plants.
There are two main types of pollination: self-pollination and cross-pollination. In self-pollination, the pollen from the stamens of a flower fertilizes the ovules of the same flower. In cross-pollination, the pollen from the stamens of one flower fertilises the ovules of another flower.
Cross-pollination is more common than self-pollination, and it is essential for the genetic diversity of flowering plants. When pollen from different flowers is transferred, the resulting seeds will have a different genetic makeup than the seeds of the parent plants. This genetic diversity helps flowering plants to adapt to changing environmental conditions.
Flowering plants are an important part of the plant world. They are essential for plant reproduction, and they also play a role in attracting pollinators and dispersing seeds.
How can the word be used?
Flowering plants are the most diverse group of plants on Earth.
Different forms of the word
Noun: flowering plant, flowering plants.
Adjective: flowering.
Etymology
The word "flowering plant" is derived from the Old English words flōr, which means "a blossom", and plant, which means "a living organism that grows in the ground". The Old English word flōr is thought to be cognate with the Old Norse word flōri, the German word Blüte, and the Latin word flos. The word plant is thought to be cognate with the Old English word plantian, which means "to set in the ground".
Question
What is a flowering plant?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the life cycle of a flowering plant and the processes involved in its reproduction. Describe the different stages, from seed germination to flower production and seed formation. Discuss the role of pollination and fertilisation in the formation of seeds and fruits. Provide real-life examples of flowering plants and how their life cycles contribute to the diversity of plant species.
Answer:
The life cycle of a flowering plant begins with seed germination, where a seed absorbs water and starts to grow into a seedling. The seedling develops into a mature plant, producing leaves and stems. As the plant reaches maturity, it forms flowers, which are the reproductive structures. Pollination occurs when pollen from the male part (anther) of one flower reaches the female part (stigma) of another flower, either by wind, insects, or other animals. Fertilisation follows, where the male gametes fuse with the female gametes in the ovary, leading to seed formation. The seeds disperse and germinate to start the life cycle anew.
Real-life examples of flowering plants include apple trees, sunflowers, and roses. The diverse life cycles of these plants contribute to the vast array of plant species, ensuring genetic diversity and ecological balance in various habitats.