Science (086) — CBSE Class 10 board question

| Basis | Movement of sensitive plant leaves | Movement of shoot towards light |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Caused by touch (stimulus) | Caused by light (stimulus) |
| Growth | Not dependent on growth; cells change shape by losing/gaining water | Dependent on growth; auxin causes unequal growth on two sides of shoot |

In short: sensitive plant movement is growth-independent and rapid, while shoot bending towards light (phototropism) is growth-dependent and slower.

Source: Chapter 6, Section 6.2 / 6.2.1 / 6.2.2

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Examiners expect exactly two clear, contrasting differences. The two key points are:

1. Growth involvement — sensitive plant = no growth; phototropism = growth-dependent. This is explicitly stated in the textbook.
2. Mechanism — sensitive plant uses change in water content of cells; shoot bending uses auxin-driven differential growth.

Stating only one difference will fetch only 1 mark. A table format is acceptable and often preferred for "difference" questions as it is clear and saves time.