Final answer:
The term 'differential growth' refers to the situation where some cells grow or elongate while others do not, as seen in various biological growth processes including the development of plant structures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term that refers to the growth and/or elongation of some cells but not others is differential growth. This concept is observable in various biological phenomena, including the development of plant structures, such as apical meristems in roots and shoots (primary growth) and the lateral meristems (secondary growth). For example, tree buds exhibit differential growth when they show a dramatic size increase during 'bud break' in spring, due to the expansion of cells that were previously formed.
Differential growth is a phenomenon characterized by the selective growth and elongation of certain cells, contrasting with the growth patterns of other cells. This concept is prominently observed in various biological processes, particularly in the development of plant structures. In primary growth, apical meristems in roots and shoots contribute to the lengthening of these structures. Secondary growth, facilitated by lateral meristems, also showcases differential growth in plants, leading to an increase in girth or thickness. An illustrative example of differential growth occurs during the 'bud break' in trees during spring. Here, specific cells within tree buds undergo substantial expansion, resulting in a noticeable increase in size. This differential growth phenomenon is a fundamental aspect of plant development, influencing the overall structure and morphology of various plant tissues and organs.