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Auxins

Auxins control cell elongation in plants. They do this through stimulating hydrogen ion pumps.

Distribution of auxins

Distribution of auxins

  • Auxins can be transported over short distances (by diffusion or active transport) and longer distances (in the phloem) around the plant.
  • When a plant detects directional stimuli, auxins are transported to different parts of the plant.
    • This creates an uneven distribution of auxins.
  • Where the distribution of auxins is uneven, a directional growth response occurs.
Expansins

Expansins

  • Auxins stimulate proton pumps in the cell wall.
  • The transport of protons into the cell wall lowers the pH in the cell wall.
  • This low pH activates proteins known as expansins.
  • Expansins loosen cellulose. This makes cell walls less rigid. So, more water can enter the cell.
    • As more water can enter cells, cells can swell and elongate.
Phototropism - shoots

Phototropism - shoots

  • Shoots are positively phototropic. This means they grow towards light.
  • If a shoot is exposed to an uneven light source, auxins are is transported to the more shaded part.
  • A higher concentration of auxins in the shaded parts cause cells in the shaded area to elongate.
  • Cell elongation causes the shoot to bend towards the light.
Diagram
Phototropism - roots

Phototropism - roots

  • Roots are negatively phototropic. So, they grow away from light.
  • If a root is exposed to an uneven light source, auxins are transported to the more shaded part.
  • A higher concentration of auxins in the shaded parts inhibits cell elongation on the shaded part.
  • The root bends away from the light.
Jump to other topics
1

Cell Structure

2

Biological Molecules

3

Enzymes

4

Cell Membranes & Transport

5

The Mitotic Cell Cycle

6

Nucleic Acids & Protein Synthesis

7

Transport in Plants

8

Transport in Mammals

9

Gas Exchange

10

Infectious Diseases

11

Immunity

12

Energy & Respiration (A2 Only)

13

Photosynthesis (A2 Only)

14

Homeostasis (A2 Only)

15

Control & Coordination (A2 Only)

16

Inherited Change (A2 Only)

17

Selection & Evolution (A2 Only)

18

Classification & Conservation (A2 Only)

19

Genetic Technology (A2 Only)

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