Question

Planta are giving not only food but also useful waste material. To prove this statement, give the evidence.

Answer 1

The material which do not require for normal growth and development are Secondary metabolites.

Alkaloids, Tanins, Resins, Gums, and Latex are some of the secondary metabolites in plants.

Alkaloids :-

• These are nitrogenous by-products and are poisonous.

• These are stored in different parts of the plants.

• Common alkaloids in plants are nimbin, quinine, caffeine, etc.

Tannins :-

• Tannins are carbon compounds. These are stored in different parts of the plant and are deep brown in colour.

• Tannins are used in tanning of leather and in medicines E.g. Cassia, Acacia.

Resin :-

• These occur mostly in Gymnosperms in specialized passages called resin passages.

• These are used in varnishes. E.g. Pinus.

Gums :-

• Plants like Neem, Acacia secretes a sticky substance called gum when branches are cut.

• The gum swells by absorbing water and helps in the healing of damaged parts of a plant.

• Economically, gums are being used as adhesives and binding agents in preparation of the medicines, food, etc.

Latex :-

• Latex is a sticky, milky white substance secreted by plants.

• Latex is stored in latex cells or latex vessels.

• From the latex of Hevea braziliensis (Rubber Plant) rubber is prepared.

• Latex from jatropa is the source of biodiesel.

Answer 2

Planta are giving not only food but also useful waste material. To prove this statement, give the evidence.