Before You Begin
Question #46246
The Question
In a dicotyledonous plant, the peduncle (inflorescence axis) possesses open vascular bundles. If a genetic mutation causes premature and hyperactive functioning of the fascicular vascular cambium within the peduncle during early floral development, which of the following represents the most likely anatomical constraint and its consequence on the plant's reproductive output?
Options
- A.
The inflorescence will support a larger number of flowers due to a proportional increase in both secondary xylem and secondary phloem, enhancing bidirectional transport.
- B.
The reproductive output will decrease because the continuous and rapid accumulation of secondary xylem will crush the primary and older secondary phloem, creating a nutrient bottleneck.
- C.
The primary xylem will be pushed towards the periphery and crushed by the expanding pith, leading to severe water stress and abscission of the floral buds.
- D.
The peduncle will rapidly form a suberized periderm that completely blocks lenticular gaseous exchange, leading to the asphyxiation of the developing floral meristems.
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
Vascular Bundle Openness|Inflorescence|Cambium
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students generally associate 'secondary growth' with positive traits like 'increased transport capacity' and 'mechanical support'.
The trap relies on recalling a specific, critical NCERT line: 'The primary and secondary phloems get gradually crushed due to the continued formation and accumulation of secondary xylem.' Applying this anatomical reality to a high-demand sink (the inflorescence) reveals a structural trade-off where excessive secondary growth actually starves the reproductive organs.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Morphology of Flowering Plants - Class 11 |
| Concept | Inflorescence Types |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |