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Question #47506
The Question
In the evolutionary transition from primitive green algae to advanced spermatophytes, there is a distinct shift from zygotic meiosis to gametic meiosis. Which of the following statements correctly identifies the primary genetic advantage of the life cycle associated with gametic meiosis in complex multicellular organisms?
Options
- A.
It produces a dominant haploid gametophyte that immediately expresses and purges deleterious recessive mutations from the population.
- B.
It results in a dominant diploid phase where homologous chromosomes allow the masking of deleterious recessive mutations during extensive somatic growth.
- C.
It ensures that meiosis occurs immediately after karyogamy, preventing the accumulation of somatic mutations in the sporophyte.
- D.
It relies on sporic meiosis to alternate between equally dominant haploid and diploid phases, ensuring maximum genetic recombination.
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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
Meristems|Gametophyte|Sporophyte|Plant Growth and Development
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often memorize 'zygotic meiosis = haplontic' and 'gametic meiosis = diplontic' from the NCERT Plant Kingdom chapter, but fail to connect this to the genetic principles of dominance and recessiveness.
The trap lies in understanding why evolution favored diploidy for large, complex organisms.
While haploidy allows rapid purging of mutations (Option A - a common half-truth), it prevents the evolution of complex multicellularity because any somatic mutation is immediately expressed and potentially lethal.
Diploidy (Option B) acts as a genetic buffer.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Plant Kingdom - Class 11 |
| Concept | Haplontic-Diplontic Life Cycle Transitions |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |