Sources

Definition

Sources are the parts of a plant where photosynthesis occurs, producing sugars and other organic molecules. Common sources include leaves and green stems.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sources produce sugars through photosynthesis that are essential for plant growth and development.
2. Sugars generated in the sources are transported to sinks (areas of storage or growth) via the phloem.
3. Source activity can change with seasons; for example, leaves act as sources during the growing season.
4. The efficiency of a source in supplying nutrients affects overall plant health and yield.
5. Source-sink relationships can be influenced by environmental factors such as light, temperature, and water availability.

Review Questions

• What role do sources play in the transport of water and solutes in plants?
• How do seasonal changes affect which parts of the plant act as sources?
• Why is it important for a plant to maintain efficient source-sink relationships?

Related terms

Phloem:

The vascular tissue responsible for transporting sugars from sources to sinks within a plant

Photosynthesis: The process by which green plants use sunlight to synthesize foods from carbon dioxide and water

Sinks: Parts of a plant where sugars are stored or used, such as roots, fruits, and seeds