What Is Tissues Class 9 Answer: Complete Definition and Explanation
By ConceptScroll Team · Published on 19 June 2026 · 4 min read
What is tissues class 9 answer? In simple terms, tissues are groups of similar cells that work together to perform a specific function. This concept is fundamental in the Class 9 Science NCERT chapter on Tissues, helping students understand how living organisms are organized.
Definition and Importance of Tissues in Class 9 Science
In Class 9 NCERT Science, the term tissues refers to a group of cells that are similar in structure and function. These cells work together to perform a specific activity essential for the organism's survival.
Tissues form the building blocks of organs and systems in both plants and animals. Understanding tissues helps students grasp how complex living beings are organized from simple cells. This knowledge is crucial for answering questions in exams and for further studies in biology.
Key points:
- Tissues consist of cells with similar shape and function.
- They help in growth, support, transport, and protection.
- Found in both plants and animals with different types.
This foundational concept sets the stage for exploring various tissue types in detail.
Types of Plant Tissues: Meristematic and Permanent
Plant tissues are mainly divided into two categories:
1. Meristematic Tissues
- Composed of actively dividing cells.
- Responsible for plant growth.
- Found in regions like root tips, shoot tips, and cambium.
- Cells are small, thin-walled, and have dense cytoplasm.
2. Permanent Tissues
- Formed from meristematic cells that have differentiated.
- Cells lose the ability to divide.
- Types include:
- Simple Permanent Tissues: Parenchyma, Collenchyma, Sclerenchyma
- Complex Permanent Tissues: Xylem and Phloem
| Tissue Type | Function | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Parenchyma | Storage, photosynthesis | Thin walls, loosely packed cells |
| Collenchyma | Support in growing parts | Uneven thickening of cell walls |
| Sclerenchyma | Mechanical support | Thick, lignified walls, dead cells |
| Xylem | Water transport | Vessels and tracheids |
| Phloem | Food transport | Sieve tubes and companion cells |
Understanding these tissues helps Class 9 students answer questions on plant structure and functions effectively.
Want to test yourself on Tissues? Try our free quiz →
Animal Tissues: Four Main Types Explained
In animals, tissues are classified into four main types, each with distinct functions:
1. Epithelial Tissue
- Covers body surfaces and lines cavities.
- Protects underlying tissues.
- Examples: skin, lining of mouth.
2. Connective Tissue
- Supports and binds other tissues.
- Includes bone, cartilage, blood, and adipose tissue.
3. Muscular Tissue
- Responsible for movement.
- Types: skeletal (voluntary), smooth (involuntary), cardiac (heart muscle).
4. Nervous Tissue
- Transmits electrical impulses.
- Coordinates body functions.
| Tissue Type | Function | Location Example |
|---|---|---|
| Epithelial | Protection, absorption | Skin, lining of lungs |
| Connective | Support, transport | Bones, blood |
| Muscular | Movement | Skeletal muscles |
| Nervous | Signal transmission | Brain, spinal cord |
This classification helps Class 9 students understand animal body organization and prepares them for exam questions.
How Tissues Help in Plant Growth and Repair
Meristematic tissues play a vital role in plant growth and repair. These tissues contain cells that divide continuously, allowing plants to grow in length and girth.
- Apical Meristem: Located at tips of roots and shoots, responsible for lengthwise growth.
- Lateral Meristem (Cambium): Found along the sides of stems and roots, helps in thickness growth.
Example: When a plant stem is cut, meristematic cells near the wound divide to repair the damage.
Formula to remember:
Growth rate ∝ Rate of cell division in meristematic tissue
This concept is important for Class 9 students to understand how plants develop and adapt.
Comparison Between Plant and Animal Tissues
Understanding the differences between plant and animal tissues helps clarify their unique roles.
| Feature | Plant Tissues | Animal Tissues |
|---|---|---|
| Cell Wall | Present (cellulose) | Absent |
| Types | Meristematic, Permanent | Epithelial, Connective, Muscular, Nervous |
| Function | Growth, support, transport | Protection, support, movement, coordination |
| Cell Shape | Usually fixed and regular | Variable and irregular |
| Ability to Divide | Meristematic cells divide actively | Limited in adults |
This comparison aids Class 9 students in distinguishing tissue types clearly for exams.
Solved Example: Identifying Tissue Types
Example:
A plant tissue has thick, lignified walls and provides mechanical support. Identify the tissue.
Solution:
- Thick, lignified walls indicate Sclerenchyma.
- It is a permanent simple tissue providing mechanical strength.
Example 2:
Which animal tissue helps in transmitting signals?
Solution:
- Nervous tissue transmits electrical impulses.
These examples help Class 9 students practice and prepare for exams based on NCERT content.
Frequently asked questions
What is the definition of tissues in Class 9 Science?
Tissues are groups of similar cells that perform a specific function in plants and animals.
Name the two main types of plant tissues.
Meristematic tissues (growth) and permanent tissues (support and transport).
What are the four types of animal tissues?
Epithelial, connective, muscular, and nervous tissues.
Which plant tissue is responsible for growth?
Meristematic tissue is responsible for the growth of plants.
How do animal tissues differ from plant tissues?
Animal tissues lack cell walls and have different types like muscular and nervous tissues.
What is the function of sclerenchyma tissue?
Sclerenchyma provides mechanical support and strength to plants.
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