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Edexcel IGCSE Biology · Spec 2.83-2.85

Plant Responses Tropisms

Tropisms in plants — phototropism and gravitropism — and how the hormone auxin controls growth.

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Plant Responses Tropisms

Spec 2.83-2.85

What you need to know

  • Explain what a tropism is
  • Describe phototropism and the role of auxin
  • Describe gravitropism, also called geotropism

Active recall

Quick check

Answer each question before opening the answer.

How do shoots and roots respond to light and gravity?

Shoots grow towards light (positive phototropism) and away from gravity; roots grow towards gravity (positive gravitropism) and away from light.

Which hormone controls these growth responses?

Auxin.

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