which of the statements does not describe a function of the vascular cambium?

To determine which statement does not describe a function of the vascular cambium, we need to understand the primary roles of the vascular cambium in plant biology:

Functions of the Vascular Cambium:

1. Secondary Xylem Production: The vascular cambium produces secondary xylem (wood) toward the inside of the stem.
2. Secondary Phloem Production: It also produces secondary phloem toward the outside of the stem.
3. Growth Ring Formation: It contributes to the formation of growth rings by adding layers of xylem and phloem annually.
4. Lateral Growth: It enables the plant to grow in girth, increasing the diameter of stems and roots.

Statements to Evaluate:

1. “The vascular cambium produces primary xylem and primary phloem.”
   • Does Not Describe: The vascular cambium does not produce primary xylem or primary phloem; these tissues are produced by the primary meristems (protoderm, ground meristem, and procambium) during primary growth. The vascular cambium is responsible for producing secondary xylem and secondary phloem during secondary growth.
2. “The vascular cambium contributes to the formation of secondary xylem and secondary phloem.”
   • Describes: This is a core function of the vascular cambium. It produces secondary xylem inwardly and secondary phloem outwardly.
3. “The vascular cambium helps in increasing the stem diameter by producing additional layers of xylem and phloem.”
   • Describes: This is another key function of the vascular cambium. It enables the plant to grow in girth by producing additional layers of xylem and phloem.
4. “The vascular cambium is involved in the elongation of roots and stems.”
   • Does Not Describe: The elongation of roots and stems is primarily the function of apical meristems, not the vascular cambium. The vascular cambium is involved in secondary growth, which increases the girth rather than the length.

Summary:

• Does Not Describe a Function:
  • “The vascular cambium produces primary xylem and primary phloem.”
  • “The vascular cambium is involved in the elongation of roots and stems.”