Which term refers to protective layers of mostly dead cork cells that cover the outside of woody stems and roots?

Which term refers to protective layers of mostly dead cork cells that cover the outside of woody stems and roots?

• A. Inner Bark
• B. Outer Bark
• C. Xylem
• D. Phloem

Answer: (B)

Outer bark refers to the protective outer covering of woody stems and roots, made mostly of dead cork cells that have become suberized as they mature. This dead cork forms a tough, waterproof barrier produced by the cork cambium as part of the periderm, protecting inner tissues from damage, drying out, and pathogens. In contrast, inner bark consists of living tissues like phloem inside the plant, while xylem and phloem are tissues within the wood and the transport system, respectively. Because the question describes the outer protective layer composed mainly of dead cork cells, outer bark best fits.

Outer bark refers to the protective outer covering of woody stems and roots, made mostly of dead cork cells that have become suberized as they mature. This dead cork forms a tough, waterproof barrier produced by the cork cambium as part of the periderm, protecting inner tissues from damage, drying out, and pathogens. In contrast, inner bark consists of living tissues like phloem inside the plant, while xylem and phloem are tissues within the wood and the transport system, respectively. Because the question describes the outer protective layer composed mainly of dead cork cells, outer bark best fits.