Gibberellins primarily promote:
ALeaf fall
BStem elongation
CCell death
DStomatal closure
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: B. Stem elongation
Gibberellins are a class of plant hormones (phytohormones) that play a critical role in regulating various developmental processes. Their primary and most well-known function is promoting **stem elongation** by stimulating both cell division and cell elongation between the nodes (internodal growth).
### Breaking down the options:
1. **Stem elongation:** Gibberellins ($GA$) trigger the expression of genes that loosen cell walls, allowing the stem to stretch. This is famously seen in 'bolting' (rapid stem growth) in rosette plants.
2. **Leaf fall (Abscission):** This is primarily controlled by **Ethylene** and **Abscisic Acid ($ABA$)**.
3. **Cell death (Senescence):** This is associated with **Ethylene** and sometimes nutrient stress, whereas Gibberellins usually delay senescence in some tissues.
4. **Stomatal closure:** This is the hallmark function of **Abscisic Acid ($ABA$)**, which acts as a stress hormone during drought.
Therefore, the primary function of gibberellins is promoting stem growth.
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