Plant fibre tensile strength

• What does the term "plant fibres" generally refer to?

  Vascular bundles including xylem and phloem
• What is the function of xylem in plants?

  Transporting water through hollow tubes
• What do phloem cells transport?

  Assimilates like sucrose
• What are sclerenchyma fibres?

  Lignified support tissues in plants
• What does tensile strength describe?

  Maximum pulling force before breaking
• What equipment is needed to test the tensile strength of plant fibres?

  • Forceps
  • White tile
  • Sample of New Zealand flax plant
  • Scalpel
  • Suspended masses
• What is the first step in the method for testing plant fibre tensile strength?

  Use forceps to separate the fibres
• How can you compare the tensile strength of different fibres?

  By using suspended masses for testing
• What are the hazards and safety precautions when using a scalpel?

  Hazard: Cuts from sharp object

  • Safety Precaution: Cut away from fingers
  • Use forceps to hold sample
  • Keep away from desk edge
• What should you do in case of a cut from a scalpel?

  Apply pressure and seek medical assistance
• What biohazard precautions should be taken when handling plant materials?

  • Use disinfectant
  • Wash hands with soap after handling
• What modification can be made to the plant used in the experiment?

  Use stinging nettles instead of flax
• What must be done to stinging nettles before testing their fibres?

  Soak them for a week to soften
• What safety equipment should be worn when handling stinging nettles?

  Rubber gloves to avoid stings