Overview
This lesson compares the human digestive system and the plant transport system, focusing on their structures, functions, similarities, and differences.
Human Digestive System
- Breaks down food into nutrients using mouth, stomach, intestines, and enzymes.
- Absorbs nutrients in the small intestine and water in the large intestine.
- Removes solid and liquid waste from the body.
- Involves multiple organs for digestion and waste removal.
Plant Transport System
- Moves water, minerals, and nutrients throughout the plant without breaking them down.
- Xylem transports water and minerals upward from roots to leaves.
- Phloem distributes sugars and nutrients from leaves to other plant parts.
- Stomata are pores for gas exchange, regulated by guard cells.
- Removes waste by transpiring excess water and gases.
Similarities Between Human and Plant Systems
- Both transport essential nutrients for growth and survival.
- Each system has specialized structures for its functions.
- Both systems remove waste products to maintain balance.
Differences Between Human and Plant Systems
- Human digestive system breaks food down; plant transport system simply moves nutrients.
- Humans use muscular action and enzymes; plants use water pressure and capillary action (osmosis).
- Waste is removed as solids/liquids in humans, and as water/gases in plants.
- Digestive system has many organs; plant system relies on tubes (xylem, phloem) and pores (stomata).
Key Terms & Definitions
- Digestive System — Organs that break down food, absorb nutrients, and remove waste in humans.
- Xylem — Plant tube that carries water/minerals from roots to leaves.
- Phloem — Plant tube that distributes sugars/nutrients from leaves.
- Stomata — Tiny pores on leaves for gas exchange.
- Guard Cells — Cells that open/close stomata to control water and gas movement.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Complete the Venn diagram comparing similarities and differences between the human digestive and plant transport systems.