What is phototropism in plants?

Phototropism refers to the growth movement of a plant in response to light, specifically towards the light source. This phenomenon occurs because light influences the distribution of growth hormones within the plant. The hormone auxin plays a critical role in this process; it accumulates on the shaded side of the plant, promoting cell elongation on that side. As a result, the plant bends toward the light. This growth response is crucial for plants to maximize their exposure to sunlight, which is essential for photosynthesis. The ability to grow toward light not only helps plants survive but also enhances their ability to compete for resources in their environment.

In contrast, the other options pertain to different plant processes. Growth away from light is known as skototropism and is the opposite of phototropism. The development of seeds and the opening of flowers are unrelated processes associated with plant reproduction and development rather than growth responses to light.