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Question #45941
The Question
A researcher is plotting the geometric growth curve of a plant. During the exponential (log) phase, the plant is suddenly subjected to severe nutrient stress. Which of the following best explains the immediate cellular response in the apical meristem and its consequence on growth quantification?
Options
- A.
Cells exit the G1 phase and enter the quiescent stage (G0), remaining metabolically active, which drastically reduces the absolute growth rate.
- B.
Cells arrest at the G2/M checkpoint, losing metabolic activity, which immediately triggers the stationary phase of the sigmoid curve.
- C.
The mitotic index of the meristem increases to compensate for stress, but the relative growth rate decreases due to impaired cell elongation.
- D.
Meristematic cells undergo differentiation without division, converting the exponential geometric growth directly into arithmetic growth.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
Mitotic Index|Meristem|G0 Phase
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: This question tests the synthesis of two distinct NCERT chapters (Cell Cycle and Plant Growth).
The primary misconception is equating the cessation of growth (entering G0) with cell death or loss of metabolic activity.
Students must recognize that the G0 phase acts as a functional 'brake' on the absolute growth rate while maintaining meristematic potential (metabolic activity), and that this exit occurs specifically from the G1 phase.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Plant Growth and Development - Class 11 |
| Concept | Growth Rate Quantification |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |