The function of cork cambium is to produce

Options

A. only cork
B. only secodary cortex
C. only cambium
D. both cork and secondary cortex

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Cork Cambium**:
- Cork cambium, also known as phallogen, is a type of lateral meristematic tissue found in plants. It is responsible for the production of protective tissues.

2. **Formation of Cork Cambium**:
- Cork cambium develops from parenchymatous cells that undergo a process called de-differentiation. This means that these cells, which typically do not divide, regain the ability to divide and form the cork cambium.

3. **Function of Cork Cambium**:
- The primary function of cork cambium is to produce two types of tissues:
- **Cork**: This is produced on the inner side of the cork cambium.
- **Secondary Cortex**: This is produced on the outer side of the cork cambium.

4. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Option A**: Only cork - This is incorrect because cork cambium also produces secondary cortex.
- **Option B**: Only secondary cortex - This is incorrect for the same reason as above.
- **Option C**: Only cambium - This is incorrect because cork cambium itself does not produce cambium.
- **Option D**: Both cork and secondary cortex - This is correct as cork cambium produces both tissues.

5. **Conclusion**:
- The correct answer is **Option D**, as cork cambium produces both cork and secondary cortex.