What are the primary functions of ground tissue in plants?

The primary functions of ground tissue in plants encompass a variety of roles, making it crucial for overall plant health and functionality. Ground tissue primarily includes three types of cells: parenchyma, collenchyma, and sclerenchyma. Parenchyma cells, for instance, are key players in photosynthesis due to the presence of chloroplasts, particularly in green tissues. They are also heavily involved in food storage (starch) and the healing and regeneration of tissue, allowing plants to recover from damage.

Additionally, ground tissue supports the structure of the plant and, particularly in the case of collenchyma cells, offers flexible support, which is essential for young, growing parts of the plant. This diverse functionality encapsulates why option A accurately identifies the major roles of ground tissue, highlighting its importance in processes directly related to survival and growth. The combination of photosynthesis, food storage, healing, and tissue regeneration reflects the various capacities of ground tissue, making it an integral component of the plant system.