Read Growth by Rate, Shape and Measurement
A growth question may ask about the shape of growth over time, relative gain, the active zone or the most useful measurement.
Living-system questions are solved by matching a structure or organism to its function, process and stated condition.
Read growth curves and rates
Organ growth commonly follows a sigmoid curve: lag, rapid growth and plateau. Relative growth compares gain to starting size, so equal absolute increases can represent different proportional rates. Auxin and cytokinin can both promote division; a parallel-line technique can locate an elongation zone.
Match growth to a measurement
Meristems increase cell number; fruit enlargement often increases cell size; pollen tubes extend in length; leaves expand in area. Dry mass is a reliable measure for crop growth. Ethylene stimulates root hairs in the maturation zone.
OlympIQ exam lens
- ✓Typical growth curve: sigmoid.
- ✓Relative growth accounts for initial size.
- ✓Dry mass is a robust crop-growth measure.
- ✓Root hairs form in the maturation zone.
Absolute growth and relative growth answer different questions.
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