We tend to think of plants as immobile when, in fact, they can move in many ways. Which of the following is a legitimate way in which plants move?
A) stretching or shrinking movements up or down in response to light
B) folding and unfolding of leaves using muscle-like tissues
C) growth movements toward or away from light
D) cessation of plant growth in response to wind or touch
E) rapid responses using action potentials from nervous tissue cells similar to those found in the nervous tissue of animals

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Plants can move by growth movements toward or away from light, which is called phototropism. This allows them to position their leaves to optimize photosynthesis.

Answer: A
 Plants can move by stretching or shrinking movements in response to light, which is called nastic movements. This allows them to adjust their orientation and maximize light exposure.

Answer: E
 Although plants do not have nervous tissue like animals, they do have electrical signaling mechanisms. Rapid responses using action potentials have been observed in some plants, especially in carnivorous plants like Venus flytraps, which use them to trap prey.

Therefore, options C, A, and E are all legitimate ways in which plants move.

We Tend to Think of Plants as Immobile When, in Fact