Final answer:
The cambium supports plant growth by producing new xylem and phloem cells for nutrient transport and contributes to radial expansion and strengthening of the plant. Sentences 1 and 3 accurately describe the roles of cambium in plant growth.
Step-by-step explanation:
How Cambium Supports Plant Growth
The cambium supports the growth of a plant primarily by producing new xylem and phloem cells. These cells are crucial for the transport of water, nutrients, and sugars throughout the plant, contributing to its overall health and development. Specifically, sentence 1) 'Cambium produces new xylem and phloem cells, which transport water, nutrients, and sugars throughout the plant' correctly describes this function of the cambium. On the other hand, sentence 3) 'Cambium produces new roots, which anchor the plant in the soil and absorb water and minerals' also correctly indicates another role of cambium in supporting the growth of a plant, although the primary focus of cambium is on facilitating secondary growth rather than initially forming roots.
The vascular cambium is responsible for the radial expansion of stems and roots, contributing to the strengthening and enlargement of the plant as it grows. It is situated between the primary xylem and phloem and forms a continuous ring or cylinder that adds layers of new cells. Cell divisions within the cambium produce secondary xylem and secondary phloem, which differentiate based on their position relative to the original cambium cell. Additionally, the cambium's activity is responsible for enabling woody plants to increase in diameter and develop a thick, sturdy structure that supports larger growth above ground.