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Question #45500
The Question
In a dense forest ecosystem characterized by high niche overlap, angiosperms rely heavily on the robust nutrient storage of the endosperm for successful seedling establishment. Consider a mutant angiosperm (which typically forms a Polygonum-type embryo sac) where the central cell contains only a single polar nucleus prior to fertilization. If double fertilization proceeds successfully, which of the following statements is INCORRECT regarding the post-fertilization events?
Options
- A.
The Primary Endosperm Nucleus (PEN) formed will be diploid (2n), potentially compromising the metabolic efficiency required for optimal nutrient allocation.
- B.
The maternal-to-paternal genomic ratio in the resulting endosperm tissue will shift from the standard 2:1 to 1:1.
- C.
The development of the embryo will precede the development of the endosperm to ensure rapid utilization of the limited diploid resources.
- D.
The ploidy of the zygote remains unaffected (2n), as syngamy independently involves the egg cell and the first male gamete.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Comparative_Analysis
Sharpen your ability to evaluate multiple scenarios and distinguish between competing potential answers.
Concepts Behind This Question
Embryo Sac Nuclei Count|Niche Overlap vs. Resource Partitioning|Endosperm development
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: The strict developmental sequence of post-fertilization events.
The trap relies on 'Teleological Thinking'—students might falsely assume that because the endosperm is mutated/weaker, the embryo must develop first to 'grab' limited resources.
However, the NCERT rule that 'Endosperm development precedes embryo development' is an absolute physiological prerequisite for zygotic division.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Sexual Reproduction in Flowering Plants - Class 12 |
| Concept | Embryo Sac Nuclei Count |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |