Chapter- Tissues

🔷 Topic 1: What is a Tissue?

🔹 Definition:
A tissue is a group of similar or dissimilar cells that work together to
perform a specific function in an organized manner.

🔹 Why do we need tissues?

• In unicellular organisms (e.g., Amoeba), a single cell performs
all life processes — respiration, digestion, excretion, etc.
• But in multicellular organisms, cells are specialized to perform
specific functions. So, to increase efficiency and coordination,
similar cells group together to form tissues.

🔹 Characteristics of tissues:
• Common origin: Most tissues arise from a common set of embryonic cells.
• Similar function: Cells in a tissue perform the same or related functions.
• Structural adaptation: Tissues are structurally adapted to perform their roles.
• Organized arrangement: Tissues are part of higher structural hierarchy — → cells → tissues → organs
→ organ systems → organism.

🔹 Advantages of tissue organization:

1) Division of labour: Different tissues perform different functions (e.g., muscle tissue causes movement,
nervous tissue transmits signals).
2) Efficiency: Specialized cells are more efficient in their function.
3) Growth and repair: Helps in the regeneration of damaged parts.
4) Structural strength: Provides mechanical strength and support (e.g., connective tissue in animals,
sclerenchyma in plants).

🔹 Types of tissues:
The tissues are broadly classified into two major types:
• Plant Tissues – Meristematic & Permanent
• Animal Tissues – Epithelial, Connective, Muscular & Nervous
🔷 Topic 2: Plant Tissues – Meristematic Tissue

🔹 What is Meristematic Tissue?

Meristematic tissue consists of actively dividing cells found in specific regions of a plant where growth occurs.
These cells continuously divide to produce new cells.

🔹 Characteristics of Meristematic Tissue:

Feature Description
Cell division Cells continuously divide and produce new cells.
Small cells Small-sized, compact cells with thin cell walls.
No vacuole Vacuoles are absent or very small (since cells are not storing anything).
Large nucleus Prominent, large nuclei due to active division.
No intercellular spaces Cells are tightly packed together.
Dense cytoplasm Cytoplasm is thick and abundant.

🔹 Types of Meristematic Tissue:

Meristematic tissues are classified based on their location in the plant:

1️⃣ Apical Meristem 🌱

• Location: At the tips of roots and shoots.
• Function: Causes primary growth, i.e., increase in length.
• Example: Root tip, shoot tip.
📌 Activities:
• Cell division → elongation → differentiation.
• Forms new leaves, buds, and flowers.

2️⃣ Intercalary Meristem 🌾

• Location: Base of leaves or at internodes (regions between two nodes).
• Function: Enables regrowth of parts; allows plants like grasses to quickly recover after being cut.
• Example: Grass, sugarcane.
📌 Activities:
• Helps in elongation of the internode.
• Especially active in monocot plants.

3️⃣ Lateral Meristem 🌳

• Location: Along the sides of stems and roots (cambium region).
• Function: Causes secondary growth, i.e., increase in thickness/girth.
• Example: Vascular cambium, cork cambium.
📌 Activities:
• Produces new xylem and phloem cells.
• Helps form wood in trees.

🔹 Summary Table – Types of Meristem

Type of Meristem Location Function Example
Apical Tips of roots and shoots Increase in length Root tip, shoot tip
Intercalary Base of leaves/internodes Regrowth Grass, wheat
Lateral Side of stem/root Increase in thickness Cambium in trees

🔹 Importance of Meristematic Tissue:

• Essential for plant growth in both height and width.
• Produces cells that differentiate into various specialized permanent tissues.
• Regenerates plant parts after injury or trimming (especially intercalary).

🔷 Topic 3: Permanent Tissues

🔹 What are Permanent Tissues?

Permanent tissues are made up of cells that have lost the ability to divide. These cells are specialized to
perform specific functions and have attained a definite shape, size, and function.
🔹 Types of Permanent Tissues:
There are two main types:
1) Simple Permanent Tissue (made of one type of cell)
2) Complex Permanent Tissue (made of more than one type of cell)

🔶 Part A: Simple Permanent Tissue

These tissues are composed of similar types of cells. They are of three types:

1️⃣ Parenchyma
📌 Structure:
• Living cells
• Thin-walled
• Large central vacuole
• Loosely packed with intercellular spaces
📌 Function:
• Storage of food, water, starch, etc.
• In some cases, helps in photosynthesis and buoyancy
🔸 Special types:
• Chlorenchyma: Parenchyma with chloroplasts – performs photosynthesis
• Aerenchyma: Parenchyma with large air spaces – provides buoyancy in aquatic plants (e.g., lotus)
📍 Location:
• Found in soft parts of the plant like pith, cortex, mesophyll.

2️⃣ Collenchyma
📌 Structure:
• Living cells
• Thickening at corners (due to cellulose and pectin)
• No intercellular spaces
📌 Function:
• Provides flexible support
• Allows bending of plant parts without breaking
📍 Location:
• Found in leaf stalks, stems of young plants, below epidermis

3️⃣ Sclerenchyma
📌 Structure:
• Dead cells
• Thick lignified walls (lignin = waterproofing agent)
• No intercellular space
• Narrow lumen or no lumen at all
📌 Function:
• Provides mechanical strength and rigidity
• Makes plant hard and stiff
📍 Location:
• Found in hard parts like seed coat, coconut shell, husk of grains, veins of leaves.
🔸 Types:
• Fibres: Elongated, thick-walled cells (e.g., jute, flax)
• Sclereids: Irregular in shape, very thick (e.g., gritty texture of guava, pear)

🔶 Summary Table – Simple Permanent Tissues

Tissue Living/Dead Wall Function Found in
Parenchyma Living Thin Storage, photosynthesis Soft plant parts, mesophyll
Collenchyma Living Thick at corners Flexible support Stems, leaf stalks
Sclerenchyma Dead Thick (lignin) Strength, rigidity Husk, seed coat, coconut shell

🔷 Part B: Complex Permanent Tissue

These are tissues made up of different types of cells working together to perform a common function – mainly
for transport of materials in plants.
There are two types:

1️⃣ Xylem – conducts water and minerals

📌 Components (all dead except one):
Component Living/Dead Function
Tracheids Dead Water conduction
Vessels Dead Main conducting elements
Xylem fibres Dead Mechanical support
Xylem parenchyma Living Storage of food and sideways transport
📍 Function:
• Conducts water and minerals from roots to leaves
• Provides mechanical strength

2️⃣ Phloem – conducts food

📌 Components (all living except one):
Component Living/Dead Function
Sieve tubes Living Conducts food (no nucleus)
Companion cells Living Controls activities of sieve tubes
Phloem parenchyma Living Stores food
Phloem fibres Dead Mechanical support
📍 Function:
• Transports prepared food (sugar) from leaves to all parts of the plant.
• Movement is bidirectional (upward and downward).

🔶 Comparison Table – Xylem vs Phloem

Feature Xylem Phloem
Function Transports water and minerals Transports food
Direction Unidirectional (upward) Bidirectional
Cell type Mostly dead cells Mostly living cells
Components Tracheids, vessels, fibres, parenchyma Sieve tubes, companion cells, fibres, parenchyma
Strength Provides strength Less role in strength

🔷 Topic 4: Animal Tissues – Epithelial Tissue

🔹 What is Epithelial Tissue?
Epithelial tissue is the protective covering of the body and lines all organs, cavities, and surfaces. It acts as a
barrier and is the first line of defense.

🔹 Characteristics of Epithelial Tissue:

Feature Description
Cellularity Made up of closely packed cells with little or no intercellular space.
Basement Membrane Rests on a thin non-cellular layer that connects it to tissues below.
No blood vessels Nutrients and oxygen diffuse through nearby tissues (like connective tissue).
Regeneration Cells divide rapidly to replace damaged or dead cells.

🔹 Functions of Epithelial Tissue:

• Protection (from injury, bacteria, dehydration)
• Absorption (in intestine)
• Secretion (enzymes, sweat, mucus)
• Excretion (urine formation in kidneys)
• Sensation (in skin, nose, eyes)

🔹 Types of Epithelial Tissue:

Type Structure Function Location

1️⃣ Simple Squamous Epithelium (Flat cells)

• Structure: Single layer of flat and thin cells
• Function: Allows diffusion and filtration
• Location: Lining of alveoli (lungs), blood vessels, Bowman’s capsule in kidneys

Also called pavement epithelium

2️⃣ Stratified Squamous Epithelium
• Structure: Multiple layers of flat cells
• Function: Provides protection from wear and tear
• Location: Skin, mouth lining, esophagus

Acts like a shield

3️⃣ Cuboidal Epithelium (Cube-shaped cells)

• Structure: Cube-shaped cells with central nucleus
• Function: Secretion and absorption
• Location: Tubules of kidneys, ducts of glands, thyroid gland

Also forms glandular epithelium (see below)

4️⃣ Columnar Epithelium (Tall pillar-like cells)

• Structure: Tall, column-like cells with nuclei at the base
• Function: Absorption and secretion
• Location: Inner lining of intestine, stomach, gallbladder

5️⃣ Ciliated Epithelium

• Structure: Columnar or cuboidal cells with hair-like projections called cilia
• Function: Moves particles or mucus in a specific direction
• Location: Respiratory tract, fallopian tubes

Example: Moves mucus out of windpipe

6️⃣ Glandular Epithelium

• Structure: Modified columnar/cuboidal cells
• Function: Produces and secretes substances like sweat, enzymes, hormones
• Location: Salivary glands, sweat glands, endocrine glands

🔶 Summary Table – Types of Epithelial Tissue

Type Shape Function Location
Simple Squamous Flat Filtration, diffusion Alveoli, blood vessels
Stratified Squamous Multi-layered flat Protection Skin, mouth, esophagus
Cuboidal Cube-shaped Secretion, absorption Kidney tubules, glands
Columnar Pillar-shaped Absorption, secretion Intestine, stomach
 Type Shape Function Location
Ciliated With cilia Movement of mucus/egg Trachea, fallopian tubes
Glandular Cuboidal/Columnar Secretion Sweat, salivary, endocrine glands

Topic : Connective Tissue

🔹 What is Connective Tissue?

Connective tissue connects, binds, supports, and anchors other tissues and organs. It is the most abundant
tissue in the animal body.

🔹 General Features of Connective Tissue:

Feature Description
Matrix Non-living part surrounding cells; can be fluid, gel-like, or solid
Fibres Collagen (strength), elastin (elasticity)
Cells Various types depending on the tissue (e.g., fibroblasts, adipocytes, chondrocytes, etc.)

🔶 Types of Connective Tissue:

Connective tissue is of three main types:
1) Loose Connective Tissue
2) Dense Connective Tissue
3) Specialized Connective Tissue

🔷 1️⃣ Loose Connective Tissue

A. Areolar Tissue
📌 Structure:
• Fibroblasts (form fibres), mast cells, macrophages
• Loose arrangement of fibres in semi-fluid matrix
📌 Function:
• Binds skin to muscles
• Fills space between organs
• Repairs tissues
📍 Location:
• Between skin and muscles
• Around blood vessels and nerves
B. Adipose Tissue
📌 Structure:
• Fat-storing cells called adipocytes
• Little matrix
📌 Function:
• Stores fat (energy reserve)
• Acts as an insulator and shock absorber
📍 Location:
• Below the skin (subcutaneous)
• Around kidneys, eyeballs

🔷 2️⃣ Dense Connective Tissue

A. Ligament
📌 Structure:
• Dense bundles of elastic fibres
• Connects bone to bone
📌 Function:
• Provides elasticity and strength
• Slightly elastic
📍 Injury to ligaments = Sprain

B. Tendon
📌 Structure:
• Tough and inelastic fibres
• Connects muscle to bone
📌 Function:
• Transmits force of muscle contraction to bones

Tissue Connects Elastic? Injury Called

Tendon Muscle to bone Inelastic Muscle pull
Ligament Bone to bone Elastic Sprain

🔷 3️⃣ Specialized Connective Tissues

A. Cartilage
📌 Structure:
• Cells: Chondrocytes
• Matrix: Firm and flexible, contains proteins and sugars
• No blood supply
📌 Function:
• Smooth surface for joint movement
• Supports soft tissues
📍 Location:
• Tip of nose
• Outer ear (pinna)
• Trachea rings
• Between bones (joints)

B. Bone
📌 Structure:
• Cells: Osteocytes
• Matrix: Hard (calcium + phosphorus salts), strong and slightly flexible
• Rich blood supply
📌 Function:
• Supports body structure
• Protects organs (e.g., skull protects brain)
• Produces blood cells in bone marrow
📍 Location:
• Skeleton system

C. Blood (Fluid Connective Tissue)

📌 Structure:
• Matrix: Plasma (fluid)

• Cells:

o RBCs – carry oxygen

o WBCs – fight infection
o Platelets – help in clotting
📌 Function:
• Transport of gases, nutrients, waste, hormones
• Defence against infection
• Clotting of blood
D. Lymph
📌 Structure:
• Clear fluid (plasma without RBCs)
• WBCs (especially lymphocytes)
• Flows in lymph vessels
📌 Function:
• Transports digested fats
• Returns tissue fluid to blood
• Plays a role in immunity

🔶 Summary Table – Connective Tissues

Type Structure Function Location
Areolar Loose fibres, fibroblasts Binds skin, fills space Between skin & muscle
Adipose Fat cells Stores fat, insulation Under skin, around
organs
Ligament Elastic fibres Joins bone to bone Joints
Tendon Collagen fibres Joins muscle to bone Near muscles and bones
Cartilage Chondrocytes, firm matrix Flexible support Nose, ear, trachea,
joints
Bone Osteocytes, hard matrix Support, protection, blood cell Skeleton
formation
Blood RBCs, WBCs, platelets in Transport, immunity, clotting Blood vessels
plasma
Lymph Plasma + WBCs Immunity, fat transport Lymph vessels

Topic 4 Continued: Muscular Tissue

🔹 What is Muscular Tissue?

Muscular tissue is responsible for movement in the body. It consists of elongated cells called muscle fibres,
which can contract and relax.
🔹 Characteristics of Muscular Tissue:
Feature Description
Contractility Muscle fibres can shorten (contract) and lengthen (relax)
Irritability Respond to stimuli like a nerve impulse
Excitability Can conduct electrical impulses
Elasticity Return to original shape after stretching
Cell Structure Long, cylindrical or spindle-shaped fibres, sometimes with striations (bands)

🔶 Types of Muscular Tissue:

There are three types of muscle tissues:
1) Striated (Skeletal) Muscle
2) Smooth (Unstriated) Muscle
3) Cardiac Muscle

1️⃣ Striated Muscle (Skeletal or Voluntary Muscle)

📌 Structure:
• Long, cylindrical multinucleated fibres
• Have alternating light and dark bands (striations)
• Attached to bones
📌 Function:
• Voluntary movements (you can control them)
• Enables walking, writing, speaking, etc.
📍 Location:
• Arms, legs, face, neck, back, tongue

Controlled by the central nervous system

2️⃣ Smooth Muscle (Unstriated or Involuntary Muscle)

📌 Structure:
• Spindle-shaped cells with one nucleus
• No striations (smooth appearance)
• Involuntary – cannot be controlled by will
📌 Function:
• Helps in movement of substances within the body
• Slow and rhythmic contractions
📍 Location:
• Walls of internal organs: stomach, intestine, urinary bladder, uterus, blood vessels

3️⃣ Cardiac Muscle

📌 Structure:
• Branched, cylindrical cells
• One nucleus per cell
• Faint striations
• Involuntary
📌 Function:
• Pumps blood continuously through heart and to all body parts
📍 Location:
• Walls of the heart only

Does not get fatigued (doesn’t tire easily)

🔶 Comparison Table – Types of Muscular Tissues

Feature Striated Muscle Smooth Muscle Cardiac Muscle
Appearance Striated (striped) Smooth (no stripes) Faint striations
Nucleus Multinucleated One nucleus One nucleus
Shape Long, cylindrical Spindle-shaped Branched
Control Voluntary Involuntary Involuntary
Speed of Action Fast Slow Moderate
Location Arms, legs, etc. Stomach, intestine Heart only
Fatigue Gets tired Doesn’t tire easily Doesn’t tire at all

Key Facts:

• All muscle types are contractile.

• Only striated muscle is under our conscious control.
• Cardiac muscles show properties of both striated (appearance) and smooth (involuntary control)
muscles.

Topic 4 Final: Nervous Tissue

🔹 What is Nervous Tissue?

Nervous tissue is the main tissue of the nervous system, responsible for:
• Receiving stimuli
 • Transmitting impulses
• Coordinating body functions
It enables communication between different parts of the body and the environment.

🔹 Characteristics of Nervous Tissue:

Feature Description
Excitability Can detect changes (stimuli)
Conductivity Can transmit electrical impulses
Coordination Helps in rapid coordination of body activities

🔶 Main Cell of Nervous Tissue: Neuron

🔸 Structure of a Neuron
A neuron (nerve cell) is the structural and functional unit of the nervous system.
(If image not visible, see description below.)

✨ Parts of a Neuron:
1) Cell Body (Cyton / Soma):

o Contains nucleus and cytoplasm

o Controls the metabolic activities of the neuron
2) Dendrites:

o Short, branched projections

o Receive signals from other neurons or receptors
3) Axon:

o Long, thin extension from the cell body

o Transmits nerve impulses away from the cell body
o Often covered with myelin sheath (acts as an insulator and increases speed of impulse)

🔸 Function of Neuron:
• Receive sensory input → Conduct electrical impulse → Transmit it to another neuron, muscle, or
gland
• This sequence is called nerve impulse transmission

🔸 Synapse:
• A synapse is the junction between the axon of one neuron and the dendrite of another
• Information is passed across the synapse using chemical messengers (neurotransmitters)
🔷 Types of Neurons:
Type of Neuron Function Example
Sensory Carries message from sense organs to brain/spinal cord Touch, smell, sight
neuron signals
Motor neuron Carries message from brain/spinal cord to muscles or Movement, secretion
glands
Interneuron Connects sensory and motor neurons within brain/spinal Coordination
cord

🔷 Other Nervous Tissue Components:

• Neuroglia (Glial Cells):

o Support cells for neurons

o Provide nutrients, remove waste, and insulate neurons

🔷 Location of Nervous Tissue:

• Brain
• Spinal cord
• Nerves (cranial and spinal nerves)

🔶 Summary Table – Nervous Tissue

Feature Description
Basic unit Neuron
Cell parts Dendrite, Cyton, Axon
Function Receiving and transmitting impulses
Location Brain, spinal cord, nerves
Communication method Electrical + chemical signals
Supporting cells Neuroglia

🔚 Recap of Animal Tissues

Tissue Type Function Example/Location
Epithelial Protection, absorption, secretion Skin, lining of gut, glands
Connective Support, transport, connection Bone, blood, cartilage, tendon
Muscular Movement Muscles, heart, gut walls
Nervous Control and coordination Brain, spinal cord, nerves
 Worksheet – Chapter: Tissues

Section 1: Multiple Choice Questions (30 MCQs)

1) Which tissue is responsible for transport of water in plants?
a) Phloem
b) Xylem
c) Parenchyma
d) Collenchyma

2) The cells of which tissue are dead at maturity?

a) Parenchyma
b) Collenchyma
c) Xylem
d) Phloem

3) Which connective tissue connects muscle to bone?

a) Ligament
b) Tendon
c) Cartilage
d) Areolar

4) Which type of muscle is involuntary and striated?

a) Skeletal muscle
b) Cardiac muscle
c) Smooth muscle
d) None of these

5) Which tissue in plants is responsible for photosynthesis?

a) Collenchyma
b) Parenchyma
c) Sclerenchyma
d) Xylem

6) The function of phloem is to transport:

a) Water
b) Food
c) Minerals
d) Gases

7) Which plant tissue provides mechanical support and flexibility?

a) Parenchyma
b) Collenchyma
c) Sclerenchyma
d) Phloem
8) The living cells of plant tissues which store food are:
a) Sclerenchyma
b) Collenchyma
c) Parenchyma
d) Xylem

9) Neurons are part of which tissue?

a) Muscular tissue
b) Connective tissue
c) Nervous tissue
d) Epithelial tissue

10) Which tissue forms the outer protective layer in plants?

a) Xylem
b) Phloem
c) Epidermis
d) Parenchyma

11) Which type of connective tissue stores fat?

a) Areolar
b) Adipose
c) Cartilage
d) Tendon

12) Ligaments connect:

a) Muscle to muscle
b) Muscle to bone
c) Bone to bone
d) Cartilage to bone

13) The conducting tissue in plants that transports food is:

a) Xylem
b) Phloem
c) Collenchyma
d) Parenchyma

14) The basic unit of nervous tissue is:

a) Neuron
b) Axon
c) Dendrite
d) Cell body

15) The plant tissue responsible for secondary growth is:

a) Apical meristem
b) Lateral meristem
c) Intercalary meristem
d) Parenchyma

16) Which of the following is NOT a type of permanent tissue in plants?

a) Parenchyma
b) Collenchyma
 c) Xylem
d) Meristematic tissue

17) Which plant tissue has thick, lignified walls?

a) Parenchyma
b) Collenchyma
c) Sclerenchyma
d) Epidermis

18) The white fibrous connective tissue that connects bone to bone is called:
a) Ligament
b) Tendon
c) Cartilage
d) Areolar

19) Which tissue provides flexibility and mechanical support in plants?

a) Parenchyma
b) Collenchyma
c) Sclerenchyma
d) Epidermis

20) Which of the following is NOT true about cardiac muscle?

a) It is involuntary
b) It is striated
c) It has multiple nuclei
d) It is found in the heart

21) Xylem is responsible for transporting:

a) Food from leaves to other parts
b) Water from roots to leaves
c) Minerals from soil to plant
d) Both b and c

22) Which of the following plant tissues is dead at maturity?

a) Parenchyma
b) Collenchyma
c) Sclerenchyma
d) Phloem

23) The part of a neuron which carries impulses away from the cell body is called:
a) Dendrite
b) Axon
c) Cell body
d) Synapse

24) Which connective tissue acts as a shock absorber in the body?

a) Areolar tissue
b) Adipose tissue
c) Cartilage
d) Ligament
 25) The layer of cells responsible for the secondary growth in plants is:
a) Apical meristem
b) Lateral meristem
c) Intercalary meristem
d) Epidermis

26) The term ‘meristem’ refers to:

a) Mature plant cells
b) Growing regions of plants
c) Dead plant cells
d) Support tissues

27) Which connective tissue connects bones to muscles?

a) Ligament
b) Tendon
c) Cartilage
d) Areolar

28) Which plant tissue is involved in healing and repair?

a) Collenchyma
b) Parenchyma
c) Sclerenchyma
d) Xylem

29) Which muscle tissue is voluntary?

a) Skeletal muscle
b) Smooth muscle
c) Cardiac muscle
d) None of these

30) Which connective tissue contains cells called osteocytes?

a) Cartilage
b) Bone
c) Areolar
d) Ligament

Section 2: Assertion-Reason Questions (10)

For each question, mark:
• (a) Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is correct explanation of Assertion

• (b) Both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is NOT correct explanation of Assertion

• (c) Assertion is true but Reason is false

• (d) Assertion is false but Reason is true

1) Assertion: Xylem transports water in plants.

Reason: Xylem vessels are dead hollow tubes.
2) Assertion: Cardiac muscles do not get fatigued easily.
Reason: Cardiac muscles work involuntarily and continuously.

3) Assertion: Phloem transports food only in upward direction.

Reason: Phloem consists of sieve tubes and companion cells.

4) Assertion: Tendons connect muscle to bone.

Reason: Ligaments connect bone to bone.

5) Assertion: Parenchyma cells have thin walls and store food.

Reason: Parenchyma cells are dead at maturity.

6) Assertion: Meristematic tissue is responsible for plant growth.

Reason: Meristematic cells have thin walls and dense cytoplasm.

7) Assertion: Ligaments are elastic connective tissues.

Reason: Ligaments connect muscles to bones.

8) Assertion: Neurons transmit electrical impulses in the body.

Reason: Neurons have cell body, dendrites, and axon.

9) Assertion: Sclerenchyma cells are dead and provide mechanical support.

Reason: Sclerenchyma cells have lignified thick walls.

10) Assertion: Smooth muscles are voluntary.

Reason: Smooth muscles are spindle shaped with a single nucleus.

Section 3: Very Short Answer Questions (20)

1) Define tissue.

2) Name the types of permanent tissues in plants.

3) What is the main function of collenchyma?

4) What type of cells make up sclerenchyma?

5) What is the role of phloem?

6) What are meristematic tissues?

7) Name the different types of muscle tissues.

8) What is a neuron?

9) What is the function of ligament?

10) Where is adipose tissue found?

11) Name the parts of a neuron.

12) What is the function of xylem?

13) Give one example each of permanent and meristematic tissue.

14) Which muscle tissue is voluntary?

15) What is the function of cartilage?

16) What is epidermis?

17) Define tendon.

18) What type of connective tissue stores fat?

19) What is the function of areolar tissue?

20) What are dendrites?

Section 4: Short Answer Questions (10)

1) Differentiate between xylem and phloem.

2) Explain the structure and function of parenchyma.

3) Describe the types and functions of connective tissue.

4) What are meristematic tissues? Give their types.

5) Explain the structure and types of muscular tissue.

6) Describe the role of epidermis in plants.

7) Differentiate between tendons and ligaments.

8) What is the importance of sclerenchyma in plants?

9) Explain the structure and function of cardiac muscle.

10) Describe the parts of a neuron and their functions.

Section 5: Long Answer Questions (10)

1) Explain the various types of plant tissues and their functions.

2) Describe the types of animal tissues with examples.

3) Write a detailed note on connective tissue and its types.

4) Explain the structure and functions of the three types of muscles.

5) Describe the structure and function of xylem in detail.

6) Explain the difference between meristematic and permanent tissues.

7) Describe the role of nervous tissue and neuron in coordination.

8) Write a note on the structure and function of phloem.

 9) Discuss the various types of connective tissues found in animals.

10) Explain the structure and importance of epidermis in plants.

Section 6: Case-Based Questions (10)

Case Study 1:
A botanist observes a plant with flexible, elongated cells that have unevenly thickened walls, especially near the
stem’s edges. She also notices that some cells have thick, lignified walls and are dead at maturity.
1) Identify the two types of tissues the botanist observed.

2) What are the functions of these tissues in the plant?

Case Study 2:
A doctor examines a patient who has difficulty moving certain joints. On investigation, it is found that the
connective tissues connecting bones at these joints are weak and less elastic.
1) Which connective tissue is likely affected?

2) What is the role of this connective tissue in normal joint function?

Case Study 3:
A sports scientist studies muscle tissues in athletes. He notes that the muscles responsible for voluntary
movements have a striped appearance and multiple nuclei per cell. The muscles controlling internal organs lack
striations and work involuntarily.
1) Identify these two types of muscles.

2) How do these muscle types differ in function?

Case Study 4:
A plant physiologist studies water transport in a tall tree. He finds hollow tubes made of dead cells running from
roots to leaves. He also identifies tissue responsible for transporting food from leaves to other parts.
1) Name the tissue transporting water and the one transporting food.

2) Describe the structural differences between xylem and phloem.

Case Study 5:
A neurologist studies nerve tissue to understand signal transmission. The nerve cells have long extensions and
receive signals via branching processes.
1) What are the main parts of a neuron responsible for signal reception and transmission?

2) What is the function of nervous tissue in animals?

Detailed Solutions
Section 1: MCQs

1) Correct answer: b) Xylem

Reason: Xylem conducts water and minerals from roots to other parts of the plant.

2) Correct answer: c) Xylem

Reason: Xylem vessels and tracheids are dead at maturity, forming hollow tubes for water
transport.

3) Correct answer: b) Tendon

Reason: Tendons connect muscles to bones, ligaments connect bones to bones.

4) Correct answer: b) Cardiac muscle

Reason: Cardiac muscle is involuntary and striated, found only in the heart.

5) Correct answer: b) Parenchyma

Reason: Parenchyma cells contain chloroplasts and carry out photosynthesis in leaves.

6) Correct answer: b) Food

Reason: Phloem transports food (mainly sugars) from leaves to other plant parts.

7) Correct answer: b) Collenchyma

Reason: Collenchyma cells have unevenly thickened walls, providing flexibility and support.

8) Correct answer: c) Parenchyma

Reason: Parenchyma cells are living and store food and water.

9) Correct answer: c) Nervous tissue

Reason: Neurons make up nervous tissue responsible for transmitting signals.

10) Correct answer: c) Epidermis

Reason: Epidermis is the outermost protective layer in plants.

11) Correct answer: b) Adipose

Reason: Adipose tissue stores fat in animals.

12) Correct answer: c) Bone to bone

Reason: Ligaments connect bones to bones, providing joint stability.

13) Correct answer: b) Phloem

Reason: Phloem transports food from leaves to other parts of the plant.

14) Correct answer: a) Neuron

Reason: Neuron is the basic structural and functional unit of nervous tissue.
15) Correct answer: b) Lateral meristem
Reason: Lateral meristem (cambium) is responsible for secondary growth (increase in girth).

16) Correct answer: d) Meristematic tissue

Reason: Meristematic tissue is not permanent; it is the growing tissue in plants.

17) Correct answer: c) Sclerenchyma

Reason: Sclerenchyma cells have thick lignified walls for mechanical support.

18) Correct answer: a) Ligament

Reason: Ligaments connect bone to bone.

19) Correct answer: b) Collenchyma

Reason: Collenchyma provides flexibility and mechanical support.

20) Correct answer: c) It has multiple nuclei

Reason: Cardiac muscle cells have one or two nuclei, not multiple like skeletal muscles.

21) Correct answer: d) Both b and c

Reason: Xylem transports water and minerals absorbed by roots to the rest of the plant.

22) Correct answer: c) Sclerenchyma

Reason: Sclerenchyma cells are dead at maturity.

23) Correct answer: b) Axon

Reason: Axon carries nerve impulses away from the cell body.

24) Correct answer: c) Cartilage

Reason: Cartilage acts as a shock absorber between bones.

25) Correct answer: b) Lateral meristem

Reason: Lateral meristem causes secondary growth, increasing thickness.

26) Correct answer: b) Growing regions of plants

Reason: Meristematic tissues consist of actively dividing cells.

27) Correct answer: b) Tendon

Reason: Tendons connect muscles to bones.

28) Correct answer: b) Parenchyma

Reason: Parenchyma helps in healing and repair by cell division.

29) Correct answer: a) Skeletal muscle

Reason: Skeletal muscles are voluntary.

30) Correct answer: b) Bone

Reason: Bone tissue contains osteocytes (bone cells).

Detailed Solutions - Section 2: Assertion-Reason Questions

1.
Assertion: Xylem transports water in plants.
Reason: Xylem vessels are dead hollow tubes.
• Both assertion and reason are true, and reason correctly explains assertion.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Xylem vessels are dead cells forming hollow tubes that facilitate the upward
movement of water and minerals.

2.
Assertion: Cardiac muscles do not get fatigued easily.
Reason: Cardiac muscles work involuntarily and continuously.
• Both assertion and reason are true, and reason correctly explains assertion.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Cardiac muscles are involuntary and rhythmic, enabling continuous pumping of
blood without fatigue.

3.
Assertion: Phloem transports food only in upward direction.
Reason: Phloem consists of sieve tubes and companion cells.
• Assertion is false, Reason is true.
Answer: (d)
Explanation: Phloem transports food both upward and downward depending on plant parts. It
consists of sieve tubes and companion cells, but transport direction varies.

4.
Assertion: Tendons connect muscle to bone.
Reason: Ligaments connect bone to bone.
• Both assertion and reason are true, and reason correctly explains assertion.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Tendons attach muscles to bones; ligaments connect bones to other bones at joints.

5.
Assertion: Parenchyma cells have thin walls and store food.
Reason: Parenchyma cells are dead at maturity.
• Assertion is true, Reason is false.
Answer: (c)
 Explanation: Parenchyma cells are living cells with thin walls and store food; they are not dead at
maturity.

6.
Assertion: Meristematic tissue is responsible for plant growth.
Reason: Meristematic cells have thin walls and dense cytoplasm.
• Both assertion and reason are true, and reason correctly explains assertion.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Meristematic cells divide actively for growth; their thin walls and dense cytoplasm
support this activity.

7.
Assertion: Ligaments are elastic connective tissues.
Reason: Ligaments connect muscles to bones.
• Assertion is true, Reason is false.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Ligaments are elastic connective tissues but connect bone to bone, not muscles to
bones.

8.
Assertion: Neurons transmit electrical impulses in the body.
Reason: Neurons have cell body, dendrites, and axon.
• Both assertion and reason are true, and reason correctly explains assertion.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Neurons have these parts and transmit nerve impulses for communication.

9.
Assertion: Sclerenchyma cells are dead and provide mechanical support.
Reason: Sclerenchyma cells have lignified thick walls.
• Both assertion and reason are true, and reason correctly explains assertion.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Thick lignified walls make sclerenchyma strong and dead at maturity, providing
support.
10.
Assertion: Smooth muscles are voluntary.
Reason: Smooth muscles are spindle shaped with a single nucleus.
• Assertion is false, Reason is true.
Answer: (d)
Explanation: Smooth muscles are involuntary, but are spindle-shaped with one nucleus.

Detailed Solutions - Section 3: Very Short Answer Questions

1) What is a tissue?
Answer: A tissue is a group of similar cells performing a specific function together.

2) Name the tissue that connects muscles to bones.

Answer: Tendons.

3) Which tissue transports food in plants?

Answer: Phloem.

4) What type of tissue is cardiac muscle?

Answer: Involuntary and striated muscle tissue found in the heart.

5) Name the tissue responsible for plant growth.

Answer: Meristematic tissue.

6) What is the function of xylem?

Answer: Transport water and minerals from roots to other parts of the plant.

7) Which plant tissue stores food and water?

Answer: Parenchyma.

8) Name the tissue that connects bones to bones.

Answer: Ligaments.
9) What type of cells make up nervous tissue?
Answer: Neurons.

10) Which connective tissue stores fat in animals?

Answer: Adipose tissue.

11) Which tissue provides flexibility and mechanical support in plants?

Answer: Collenchyma.

12) Are sclerenchyma cells living or dead at maturity?

Answer: Dead.

13) What is the main function of phloem?

Answer: To transport food (mainly sugars) from leaves to other parts of the plant.

14) Name the outermost protective layer in plants.

Answer: Epidermis.

15) What type of muscle is voluntary and attached to bones?

Answer: Skeletal muscle.

16) What type of muscle tissue is found in walls of internal organs?

Answer: Smooth muscle.

17) What is the basic structural and functional unit of nervous tissue?
Answer: Neuron.

18) Which plant tissue has cells with unevenly thickened walls?
Answer: Collenchyma.

19) Name the tissue that acts as a shock absorber between bones.
Answer: Cartilage.
 20) What is the function of ligament?
Answer: To connect bones to bones.

Detailed Solutions – Section 4: Short Answer Type Questions

1.
Question: What are the main types of tissues found in plants?
Answer:
Plants have two main types of tissues:
• Meristematic tissue: Responsible for growth. Cells are small, actively dividing, and have thin
walls.

• Permanent tissue: These cells are mature and perform various functions. Permanent tissues are
of three types:

o Parenchyma: Thin-walled, living cells that store food and water, and help in
photosynthesis.

o Collenchyma: Cells with unevenly thickened walls that provide mechanical support and
flexibility.

o Sclerenchyma: Thick, lignified, dead cells that provide strength and support.

2.
Question: Describe the structure and function of xylem.
Answer:
• Structure: Xylem is composed of vessels, tracheids, xylem fibers, and xylem parenchyma.
Vessels and tracheids are tubular, hollow, and dead cells arranged end to end.

• Function: Xylem transports water and minerals absorbed by roots to all parts of the plant. It also
provides mechanical support.

3.
Question: What is the role of phloem in plants?
Answer:
Phloem transports food (mainly sugars) produced in the leaves during photosynthesis to other parts of the plant
like roots, stems, and fruits. It consists of sieve tubes, companion cells, phloem fibers, and phloem parenchyma.
4.
Question: Differentiate between tendon and ligament.
Answer:

Feature Tendon Ligament

Connects Muscle to bone Bone to bone
Tissue type Dense connective tissue Elastic connective tissue
Function Transmits force from muscle to bone Provides stability to joints

5.
Question: Explain the characteristics of skeletal muscle.
Answer:
• Voluntary muscle controlled consciously.

• Striated (striped) appearance under a microscope.

• Multinucleated cells.

• Attached to bones by tendons, enabling movement of body parts.

6.
Question: What is the function of parenchyma cells in plants?
Answer:
Parenchyma cells are involved in photosynthesis, storage of food and water, and repair of injured parts. They
are living cells with thin cell walls and intercellular spaces.

7.
Question: How do meristematic tissues differ from permanent tissues?
Answer:

Feature Meristematic Tissue Permanent Tissue

Cell division Actively dividing cells Cells do not divide
Cell size Small cells with dense cytoplasm Variable sizes, mature cells
Cell wall Thin cell walls Thick or thin depending on type
Function Responsible for growth Perform specific functions like support, transport, storage

8.
Question: What are the main types of connective tissues in animals?
Answer:
 • Loose connective tissue: Supports epithelium and organs.

• Adipose tissue: Stores fat for energy and insulation.

• Cartilage: Provides flexible support and reduces friction between bones.

• Bone: Provides structural support and protection.

• Blood: Transports oxygen, nutrients, and waste.

9.
Question: Describe the structure and function of neurons.
Answer:
• Structure: Neuron has a cell body (soma), dendrites (receive impulses), and a long axon
(transmits impulses).

• Function: Neurons transmit electrical signals to and from the brain, spinal cord, and other parts
of the body.

10.
Question: What is the role of collenchyma tissue in plants?
Answer:
Collenchyma cells have thickened walls that provide flexible mechanical support, especially in young stems and
leaves, helping the plant to bend without breaking.

Detailed Solutions – Section 5: Long Answer Type Questions

1.
Question: Describe the different types of plant tissues and their functions.
Answer:
Plant tissues are broadly classified into two types: Meristematic tissue and Permanent tissue.
1) Meristematic Tissue:

o Made up of actively dividing cells responsible for plant growth.

o Types based on location:

▪ Apical meristem: At tips of roots and shoots, responsible for primary growth (length).

▪ Lateral meristem: Along the sides, responsible for secondary growth (thickness).

▪ Intercalary meristem: At base of leaves or internodes.

2) Permanent Tissue:

o Derived from meristematic tissue; cells have lost the ability to divide.

o Types:

▪ Simple permanent tissue: Made of similar cells.

• Parenchyma: Thin-walled living cells; store food, help in photosynthesis, repair tissues.

• Collenchyma: Cells with unevenly thickened walls; provide flexible support.

• Sclerenchyma: Dead cells with thick lignified walls; provide mechanical strength.

▪ Complex permanent tissue: Made of different types of cells working together.

• Xylem: Transports water and minerals; consists of vessels, tracheids, fibers, parenchyma.

• Phloem: Transports food; consists of sieve tubes, companion cells, fibers, parenchyma.

2.
Question: Explain the structure, types, and functions of animal tissues.
Answer:
Animal tissues are classified into four main types:
1) Epithelial Tissue:

o Covers body surfaces and lines internal organs and cavities.

o Functions: Protection, absorption, secretion.

2) Connective Tissue:

o Connects, supports, and binds other tissues.

o Types:

o Loose connective tissue: Binds skin to muscles.

o Adipose tissue: Stores fat for energy and insulation.

o Cartilage: Flexible support; found in ears, nose, joints.

o Bone: Hard support structure.

o Blood: Transports oxygen, nutrients, and waste.

3) Muscular Tissue:

o Responsible for movement.

o Types:

▪ Skeletal muscle: Voluntary, striated, attached to bones.

 ▪ Smooth muscle: Involuntary, non-striated, found in walls of internal organs.

▪ Cardiac muscle: Involuntary, striated, found only in the heart.

4) Nervous Tissue:

o Composed of neurons.

o Function: Transmits electrical impulses for communication and coordination.

3.
Question: Discuss the structure and functions of xylem and phloem.
Answer:
• Xylem:

o Made of vessels, tracheids, fibers, and xylem parenchyma.

o Vessels and tracheids are dead, hollow tubes.

o Function: Transport water and minerals from roots to leaves; provide mechanical support.

• Phloem:

o Made of sieve tubes, companion cells, phloem fibers, and phloem parenchyma.

o Sieve tubes have pores to allow food transport.

o Function: Transport food (mainly sugars) from leaves to other parts.

4.
Question: Write a detailed note on meristematic tissue.
Answer:
Meristematic tissue consists of actively dividing cells that help in plant growth. These cells are small, with
dense cytoplasm and large nuclei. They have thin cell walls and lack vacuoles. Meristematic tissue is found in
regions where plants grow, such as the tips of roots and shoots (apical meristem), between mature tissues
(intercalary meristem), and along the sides of stems (lateral meristem). It is responsible for both primary and
secondary growth.

5.
Question: What are tendons and ligaments? How do they differ?
Answer:
• Tendons: Connect muscles to bones, made of dense connective tissue, transmit force to cause
movement.
 • Ligaments: Connect bones to bones, made of elastic connective tissue, provide joint stability.

Differences: Tendons connect muscle to bone; ligaments connect bone to bone. Tendons are less elastic
compared to ligaments.

6.
Question: Describe the different types of muscles found in the human body.
Answer:
• Skeletal Muscle: Voluntary, striated, multinucleated, attached to bones, responsible for body
movement.

• Smooth Muscle: Involuntary, non-striated, spindle-shaped, found in walls of internal organs like
intestines and blood vessels.

• Cardiac Muscle: Involuntary, striated, found only in the heart, cells connected by intercalated
discs to allow coordinated contraction.

7.
Question: Explain the structure and function of nervous tissue.
Answer:
Nervous tissue is made up of neurons, which have three parts: cell body (contains nucleus), dendrites (receive
signals), and axon (transmits impulses). It coordinates and controls body activities by transmitting electrical
signals between brain, spinal cord, and other body parts.

8.
Question: What are parenchyma cells? Describe their functions.
Answer:
Parenchyma cells are living, thin-walled, loosely packed plant cells with large intercellular spaces. They
perform photosynthesis (when containing chloroplasts), store food and water, and help in wound healing by cell
division.

9.
Question: Define collenchyma and sclerenchyma tissues. How are they different?
Answer:
• Collenchyma: Living cells with unevenly thickened cell walls, provide flexible support, found in
young stems and leaves.

• Sclerenchyma: Dead cells with thick, lignified walls, provide rigid mechanical support, found in
mature parts of plants.
Difference: Collenchyma cells are living; sclerenchyma cells are dead. Collenchyma provides flexibility;
sclerenchyma provides hardness.

10.
Question: Describe the role of connective tissues in animals.
Answer:
Connective tissues support and bind other tissues. Loose connective tissue connects skin to muscles. Adipose
tissue stores energy as fat and insulates. Cartilage cushions joints and provides flexible support. Bone forms the
skeleton for protection and support. Blood transports oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and waste products
throughout the body.

Section 6: Case-Based Study Questions

Case Study 1:
A botanist observes a plant with flexible, elongated cells that have unevenly thickened walls, especially
near the stem’s edges. She also notices that some cells have thick, lignified walls and are dead at maturity.

Q1: Identify the two types of tissues the botanist observed.

Answer:
• The flexible, elongated cells with unevenly thickened walls are collenchyma cells.

• The thick, lignified dead cells are sclerenchyma cells.

Q2: What are the functions of these tissues in the plant?

Answer:
• Collenchyma: Provides mechanical support and flexibility, allowing the plant to bend without
breaking.

• Sclerenchyma: Provides rigid mechanical support and strength to mature parts of the plant.

Case Study 2:
A doctor examines a patient who has difficulty moving certain joints. On investigation, it is found that the
connective tissues connecting bones at these joints are weak and less elastic.
Q3: Which connective tissue is likely affected?
Answer:
Ligaments — as they connect bones to bones and provide joint stability.

Q4: What is the role of this connective tissue in normal joint function?
Answer:
Ligaments provide stability to joints and prevent excessive movements that could cause injury.

Case Study 3:
A sports scientist studies muscle tissues in athletes. He notes that the muscles responsible for voluntary
movements have a striped appearance and multiple nuclei per cell. The muscles controlling internal
organs lack striations and work involuntarily.

Q5: Identify these two types of muscles.

Answer:
• Striated muscles with multiple nuclei: Skeletal muscles (voluntary).

• Non-striated involuntary muscles: Smooth muscles.

Q6: How do these muscle types differ in function?

Answer:
• Skeletal muscles: Enable voluntary body movements like walking, running.

• Smooth muscles: Control involuntary movements like digestion, blood flow.

Case Study 4:
A plant physiologist studies water transport in a tall tree. He finds hollow tubes made of dead cells
running from roots to leaves. He also identifies tissue responsible for transporting food from leaves to
other parts.

Q7: Name the tissue transporting water and the one transporting food.
Answer:
• Water transport: Xylem.

• Food transport: Phloem.

Q8: Describe the structural differences between xylem and phloem.

Answer:
 • Xylem: Made of vessels and tracheids, which are dead, hollow tubes.

• Phloem: Made of sieve tubes and companion cells; sieve tubes are living cells with pores.

Case Study 5:
A neurologist studies nerve tissue to understand signal transmission. The nerve cells have long extensions
and receive signals via branching processes.

Q9: What are the main parts of a neuron responsible for signal reception and transmission?
Answer:
• Signal reception: Dendrites.

• Signal transmission: Axon.

Q10: What is the function of nervous tissue in animals?

Answer:
Nervous tissue transmits electrical impulses, allowing coordination and control of body activities.