The correct answer is c) rapid cell divisions in tendrillar cells that are away from the support. Tendrils in pea plants grow in response to touch, a phenomenon called thigmotropism. Rapid cell division occurs on the side of the tendril that is away from the support, causing it to bend and wrap around the object.
Explanation:
Thigmotropism: This is the growth response of a plant to touch.
Rapid cell division: When a tendril touches a support, auxin accumulates on the side opposite the support. This triggers rapid cell division in that region, causing the tendril to bend and coil around the support.
Other options:
a) effect of light: While light can influence plant growth, it doesn’t directly cause tendrils to grow and wrap around a support.
b) effect of gravity: Gravity does affect plant growth, but it doesn’t explain the specific bending and coiling action of tendrils.
d) rapid cell divisions in tendrillar cells in contact with the support: The opposite is true. Rapid cell division occurs on the side away from the support.