Cambium is a lateral meristem, as it

Options

A. increase girth
B. forms lateral branches
C. lies on nodes
D. increase length

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Cambium**: Cambium is a type of meristematic tissue found in plants. It is responsible for secondary growth, which increases the thickness or girth of the plant.

2. **Identifying Lateral Meristems**: Lateral meristems are found in the mature regions of roots and shoots. They contribute to the increase in the girth of the plant rather than its length.

3. **Functions of Cambium**: The cambium specifically produces secondary tissues, which include secondary xylem (wood) and secondary phloem. This process is essential for the plant's growth in width.

4. **Differentiating Between Meristem Types**:
- **Apical Meristems**: These are responsible for the elongation of the plant (increasing height).
- **Intercalary Meristems**: These are found at the nodes and internodes and also contribute to elongation.
- **Lateral Meristems (like Cambium)**: These are responsible for increasing the girth of the plant.

5. **Evaluating the Options**:
- **Increased Girth**: This is true for cambium as it contributes to the thickness of the plant.
- **Forms Lateral Branches**: Cambium does not directly form lateral branches; it contributes to the girth.
- **Lies on Nodes**: Cambium is not located at nodes; intercalary meristems are.
- **Increased Length**: This is not a function of cambium; it is related to apical meristems.

6. **Conclusion**: Based on the functions and characteristics of cambium, it is classified as a lateral meristem since it primarily contributes to the increase in girth of the plant.

### Final Answer: Cambium is a lateral meristem because it increases the girth of the plant by producing secondary tissues.

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