Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 13, 2026

Kinematic Analysis of Cell Division and Expansion: Quantifying the Cellular Basis of Growth and Sampling Developmental Zones in Zea mays Leaves
Published on: December 2, 2016
Rhythmic circumnutation movement of the shoots in Phaseolus vulgaris L
Abstract:
The apex of growing stems in twining plants describes a rhythmic movement in space called circumnutation. By the method of orthogonal projections, the position in space of the apex can be determined constantly. The mathematical analysis of data allowed us to determine that for Phaseolus vulgaris L. (cv. Mangetout Blanc de Juillet) grown under constant illumination and temperature (25 degrees C) the period is about 100 min. This movement has been related to rhythmic changes in the osmotic potential of the cells located in the bending zone of the stem for a constant period. These variations are longitudinally and laterally coordinated. Treatment with a solution of LiCl at 7 X 10(-3) M supplied to the root system induces a lengthening of the period. The effect of the treatment is reversed by K+ ions. From these results we deduce that rhythmic changes of the membranes are implicated in the circumnutation movements of twining plants.
Related Concept Videos
Seedless Vascular Plants
Introduction to Seed Plants
Primary and Secondary Growth in Roots and Shoots
The Angiosperm Life Cycle
Uniform Circular Motion
Non-uniform Circular Motion
For example, such accelerations...

