THE PLANT AS A WORKING MACHINE 19 
it, we must now consider in greater detail the special features 
of each part as these are shown by more careful study of their 
structures and work. Succeeding chapters will deal with these 
matters, but to see clearly the significance of special struc- 
tures and functions this unit outline of the whole plant and its 
work should be kept constantly in mind. The student can 
come to an understanding of the life of the plant only by 
observing how its organs codperate in the processes of nutri- 
tion, growth, and reproduction. It has been the purpose of this 
chapter to give an outline of the whole plant; to raise ques- 
tions concerning what a plant is and how it works; and to 
suggest, in a general way, the answers to these questions. 
Such a general view of the nature of a plant furnishes the 
best basis for further study. 
