TRACHEID Meaning and
Definition
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A tracheid is a specialized type of plant cell that functions as a water-conducting element in vascular plants, particularly in the xylem tissue. Characterized by long, slender shapes and tapering ends, tracheids are considered the primary conducting cells in gymnosperms and ferns, and also play a significant role in angiosperms. They are known for their contribution to the structural support and water transport within plants.
Tracheids are composed of thick secondary walls, which are fortified with lignin, a rigid polymer that enhances their ability to withstand pressure. These secondary walls are interrupted by numerous pits, small regions with thinner cell walls that allow for water movement between tracheids. The pits form gaps or connections in the cell walls, facilitating the flow of water from tracheid to tracheid.
The function of tracheids is closely associated with their shape and structure, as they are responsible for transporting water and minerals from the roots to other parts of the plant. They achieve this through a process known as transpiration, where water is drawn through the roots, up the stem, and eventually evaporates through the tiny pores on plant surfaces called stomata. As water evaporates from the leaves, it creates a negative pressure, known as tension, which pulls the water column upward. Tracheids, with their interconnected pits, allow water to be pulled upward and conducted efficiently through the plant.
Overall, tracheids are vital components of the plant vascular system, enabling the upward movement of water against gravity and contributing to the structural stability of plants.
Common Misspellings for TRACHEID
- rracheid
- fracheid
- gracheid
- yracheid
- 6racheid
- 5racheid
- teacheid
- tdacheid
- tfacheid
- ttacheid
- t5acheid
- t4acheid
- trzcheid
- trscheid
- trwcheid
- trqcheid
- traxheid
- travheid
- trafheid
Etymology of TRACHEID
The word "tracheid" is derived from the Greek words "tracheia" which means "a rough artery or windpipe" and "eidos" which means "form" or "structure". In botanical terminology, "tracheid" refers to a type of elongated, tapering cell found in the xylem tissue of vascular plants, responsible for water transport and support within the plant. This term was coined in the mid-19th century to describe the specific structure and function of these cells.
Similar spelling words for TRACHEID
- tracheotomy,
- tricked out,
- trachodont,
- trachodon,
- tricked-out,
- tri-chad,
- traced,
- triakidae,
- trickett,
- tracked,
- tracheitis.
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