Biology | Class 12 | 9

Unit-VI: Reproduction

1 Sexual Reproduction in
Flowering Plants Scan the QR Code
and get Video Lecture of this Chapter

Fa s t r a c k
ff Plants can reproduce both sexually and asexually. ff Pre-fertilisation Events in a Flower
ff Flower, which brings the reproductive organ of a plant, Events that take place before fertilisation are termed as
plays the most important role in the process of sexual pre-fertilisation events. Following events take place in a
reproduction. plant:
ff Structure of a Flower hh Gametogenesis
z Development of male and female reproductive
hh Stalk: Holds the flower.
hh Thalamus: Swollen upper portion of stalk. structures.
z Formation of male and female gametes.
hh Petal: Coloured part of a flower which attracts insects.
hh Sepal: Ensures protection. hh Gamete Transfer
hh Stamen: Male reproductive organ which produces z Bringing together male and female gametes.

male gametes (pollen grains). z Pollination occurs in plants to facilitate gamete

hh Carpel: Female reproductive organ which produces transfer.

female gametes (ovum/egg). ff Male Reproductive Structure in a Flower: Stamen
A typical flower consists of four whorls which are: Stamen is the male reproductive structure in a flower.
ff Calyx The structure of a stamen consists of three important
parts:
hh Outermost whorl.
hh Members are termed as ‘sepals’. hh Filament
z Long and slender stalk that bears anthers.
hh Green coloured.
hh Protect the bud which later becomes a flower. hh Anther
z Terminal bi-lobed and dithecous structure at the tip
ff Corolla
of filament.
hh Whorl before calyx.
z Each lobe has two pollen sacs/microsporangia
hh Members are termed as ‘petals’.
located at the corners.
hh Bright coloured. z A total of four microsporangia are present in an
hh Attract insects for pollination. anther.
ff Androecium z Each microsporangium produce spores, which later

hh Inner whorl next to corolla. develop into pollen grains.

hh Members are termed as ‘stamens’. hh Connective
z Part attached to the back of anther.
hh Male reproductive organ.
ff Structure of Microsporangium
ff Gynoecium If the transverse section of a microsporangium is observed
hh Innermost whorl. carefully, it appears circular in outline surrounded by four
hh Members are termed as ‘carpels’. wall layers:
hh Female reproductive organ. hh Epidermis
Stigma hh Endothecium
Anther
Petal hh Middle layers
hh Tapetum
The first three layers ensure protection of the
Style microsporangium, while the innermost layer, tapetum,
Filament
provides nourishment to the developing pollen grains.

Tapetum is of two types:

(i) Amoeboid tapetum is found in primitive
angiosperms, e.g., Typha, Alisma etc.
Sepal
Ovary (ii) Glandular tapetum is found in most of the
flowering plants.
Ovule
Sporogenous tissue is present at the centre of each
Fig. Longitudinal section of a flower
microsporangium.
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ff Microsporogenesis with more than one carpel is multicarpellary. Each carpel
Microsporogenesis is the process of the formation of has three parts:
microspores from a pollen mother cell through meiosis. hh Ovary
z Basal enclosed part of carpel.
Microspores are formed inside microsporangium.
z Ovarian cavity is present inside termed as locule.
hh Sporogenous cells differentiate to form meiocytes. z Encloses ovule (megasporangium) in it.
hh Meiocytes undergo meiosis. z Ovules are attached to cushion-like structure called
hh Four haploid microspores are formed (Microspore placenta.
tetrad). hh Style
hh Microspores dissociate and develop to form pollen z Tube-like structure that connects the ovary and

grains. stigma.
hh Stigma
hh Pollen grains are male gametophytes.
z Located at the exposed end of style.
ff Pollen Grains z Acts as the receptive surface for pollen grains.

Each pollen grain is a tiny spherical structure surrounded ff Megasporangium

by two layers: Megasporangium or ovule is the structure inside ovary
hh Exine where megaspore formation takes place.
z Hard outer layer.
The internal structure of the ovule consists of the
z Composed of a resistant organic material, following parts:
sporopollenin. hh Funicle: Stalk that attaches ovule to placenta.
z Has prominent apertures called germ pores with no
hh Hilum: Junction between ovule and funicle.
sporopollenin.
hh Integuments: One or many protective envelopes
hh Intine
around ovule.
z Thin and continuous inner layer.
hh Micropyle: A small opening at the tip of integuments.
z Composed of cellulose and pectin.
hh Chalaza: Basal part of ovule opposite to the micropylar
Formation of a pollen grain from microspore involves the end.
following changes: hh Nucellus: Mass of cells enclosed within integuments
z Expansion of the microspore.
used for food storage.
z Formation of a large vacuole.
hh Embryo Sac: Female gametophyte located in nucellus.
z Microspore nucleus displaced to an eccentric
position against microspore wall. ff Megasporogenesis
z Nucleus undergoes first pollen mitosis. Formation of megaspores is termed as Megasporogenesis.
z A large vegetative cell and a small generative cell Megaspores are formed inside megasporangium.
are formed. This is the two-cell stage. In many hh Ovule is an integumented megasporangium.
plants, pollen grains are released at this two-celled
stage. However, in some others, they are released
at a three-celled stage.
• Ovule having single integument is called unitegmic
z Generative cell detaches from pollen grain wall.
z Generative cell is engulfed by the vegetative cell.
ovule. It is common in gamopetalae.
z ‘Cell within a cell’ structure is formed. • Ovule having two integuments is called bitegmic ovule,
z Generative cell again undergo mitosis. e.g., members of polypetalae and monocots.
z Two sperm cells (male gametes) are formed • When nucellus is not surrounded by integuments, the
enclosed within the vegetative cell cytoplasm. ovule is called ategmic, e.g., Santalum album, Loranthus.
hh Characteristics of Vegetative and Generative Cell
z Vegetative cell is bigger in size, while the generative hh Ovules differentiate to form one Megaspore Mother
cell is smaller. Cell (MMC).
z Vegetative cell has an irregularly shaped nucleus, hh MMC undergoes meiosis.
while the generative cell is spindle-shaped with hh Four haploid megaspores are formed (Megaspore
dense cytoplasm and a nucleus. tetrad).
z Vegetative cell is also termed as tube cell as it is
hh One of these megaspores develops into female
responsible for growth of pollen tube.
gametophyte. The other megaspores degenerate.
z Generative cell floats in the cytoplasm of vegetative
cell. hh Only the basal megaspore remains functional that
hh Uses of Pollen Grains develops into a female gametophyte i.e., embryo sac.
z Rich in nutrients and so pollen tablets are used as hh This process of formation of embryo sac from a single
food supplements. megaspore is termed as monosporic development.
z Used as pollen banks in crop-breeding programmes.
Following changes lead to monosporic development:
hh Demerits of Pollen Grains z Nucleus undergoes mitotic division.
z Can cause chronic respiratory disorders.
z Two-nucleate embryo sac is formed.
z Cause pollen allergy.
z Nuclei undergo mitotic division again.
ff Female Reproductive Structure in a Flower: Carpel z Four-nucleate embryo sac is formed.
Carpel is the female reproductive structure in a flower. z Nuclei undergo yet another mitotic division.
Flower with a single carpel is monocarpellary and that z Eight-nucleate embryo sac is formed.
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z Cell wall formation takes place. They are of two types:
z Female gametophyte or embryo sac is formed. hh Biotic Agents
z Living organisms which act as agents of pollination.
The nuclei formed inside get rearranged to form the final
Examples: Insects, birds etc.
structure of embryo sac as follows:
hh Abiotic Agents
hh Egg Apparatus z Non-living objects which act as agents of pollination.
z 2 synergids, 1 egg cell z Pollination occurs by chance.
z Located at micropylar end Examples: Wind, water etc.
hh Antipodals ff Pollination by Wind
z Three cells at basal end of ovule Pollen grains are carried by wind from anther to stigma.
z Located at chalazal end Wind pollination is very commonly seen in grasses.
hh Central Cell Characteristics of a plant pollinated by wind are:
z Two polar nuclei fused together
hh Light pollen grains.
hh Non-sticky pollen grains.
Chalazal end hh Well-exposed stamens.
Antipodals
hh Large, feathery stigma.
ff Pollination by Water
This is a less common mode of pollination. Water
pollination can occur in a number of ways:
hh Water acts as a medium for gamete transfer in lower
plants, e.g., algae, bryophytes.
Polar nuclei hh Female flowers reach the water surface by a stalk where
Central cell male gametes were already released, e.g., Vallisneria.
Egg hh Male gametes are released inside water where flowers
remain, e.g., Seagrass.
Synergids In water pollination, pollen grains are prevented from
being wet by a mucilaginous covering.
Filiform apparatus ff Pollination by Insects
Micropylar end
Bees are the most common biotic pollinating agent. Not
Fig. Mature embryo sac only insects, but some of the animals like rats, lizards, bats
also help in pollination. Plants are specially adapted based
ff Mature Embryo sac is 7-celled, but 8-nucleate on their pollinators. Therefore, not just any animal/ insect
hh Pollination can pollinate a plant.
Transfer of pollen grains from anther to stigma is termed
as pollination. This transfer of pollen grains occurs with
the help of pollinating agents like wind, water, insects, ollination by snails is called malacophily, e.g.,
P
birds etc.
Arisaema etc.
There are different types of pollination: Pollination by ants is called myrmecophily, e.g., some


hh Autogamy members of family—Rubiaceae.

z Transfer of pollen grains from anther to stigma of
Some of the factors that attract insects are attractive
the same flower.
colour of the flower, fragrance and nectar. In some cases,
z Seen in plants which produce chasmogamous and
the insect and the plant exhibit a mutual relationship. For
cleistogamous flowers. example, the Yucca moth relationship is a mutual one. The
z Chasmogamous Flowers: Exposed anther and insect moth helps in pollinating the Yucca flower, whereas
stigma. the flower provides a space in its locule for the moth to lay
z Cleistogamous Flowers: Closed flower. Anther and eggs. The larvae feed on the Yucca seed within the fruit.
stigma lie very close to each other, e.g., Viola (common ff Pollen-Pistil Interaction
pansy), Polygala. The pollen landing on stigma of pistil might be compatible
hh Geitonogamy or incompatible with the stigma. Therefore, the acceptance
z Transfer of pollen grains from anther to stigma of or rejection of the pollen by stigma depends on the
another flower of same plant. compatibility and is mediated by chemical components of
z It is functionally cross-pollination, but genetically
the pollen interacting with those of pistil.
self-pollination. If the pollen and pistil are compatible with each other,
hh Xenogamy following events will take place:
hh Pistil accepts pollen.
z Transfer of pollen grains from anther to stigma of a
hh Formation of pollen tube occurs.
different plant.
hh Pollen tube reaches ovary.
z Genetically as well as functionally cross-pollination.
hh Pollen grains move into pollen tube.
ff Pollinating Agents hh Pollen tube enters ovule through micropyle.
Agents which carry pollen grains from anther to stigma of hh Pollen tube enters a synergid through filiform apparatus.
same/different plant are termed as pollinating agents. hh Fertilisation occurs.
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On the other hand, if the pollen and pistil are incompatible ff Endosperm
with each other, following events will take place: Primary Endosperm Cell (PEC) formed as a result of
hh Pistil rejects pollen.
triple fusion undergoes repeated divisions and a triploid
hh Prevents pollen tube growth.
endosperm tissue is formed. The main purpose of
hh Prevents fertilisation.
endosperm is to provide nutrition to the developing
Thus, pollen-pistil interaction is a dynamic process of
pollen recognition followed by promotion or inhibition of embryo.
the pollen. Chemical components of the pollen interact hh Endosperm can be free-nuclear or cellular. Free-nuclear
with those of the pistil in this interaction. endosperm is the most common type of endosperm
ff Artificial Hybridisation development. The best example to understand is the
Knowledge on pollen-pistil interaction helps in crossing tender coconut.
different species/genera to produce commercially hh In a tender coconut, water present inside is the free-
superior varieties, the technique which is now known as nuclear endosperm. Multiple nuclei float in this highly
artificial hybridisation.
nutritious clear fluid. Gradually cell walls develop
Artificial hybridisation is the process in which only desired
enclosing several nuclei. These cells and nuclei
pollen grains are used for pollination and fertilisation.
Artificial hybridisation is achieved using the following start settling at the periphery, and layers of cellular
techniques: endosperm start appearing. Therefore, in a completely
hh Emasculation mature coconut, water turns milky surrounded by
z Removal of anthers from bisexual flowers of female cellular part, kernel and it does not contain free nuclei.
parent plant.
hh Based on the presence or absence of endosperm, seeds
z This is done before anthers mature.
z Prevents self-pollination.
are classified into two types:
hh Bagging 1. Endospermic Seeds
z Covering the emasculated flower to prevent
hh Seeds which have endosperm.
contamination. hh Albuminous seeds.
z Prevents contamination of stigma with unwanted hh Examples: wheat, rice.
pollen. 2. Non-endospermic Seeds
z Desired pollen grains are dusted on stigma. hh Seeds which lack endosperm at maturity.
z Flowers are bagged again and the fruits allowed to hh Non-albuminous seeds.
develop. Examples: pea, bean.
ff Fertilisation
Degenerating
Fusion of male and female gametes is termed as synergids
fertilisation. In a flowering plant, two male gametes enter Zygote (2n)
into the cytoplasm of synergid through the micropylar end
of ovule. These two male gametes undergo fusion inside Primary Endosperm
the ovule as follows: Cell (PEC)
Primary Endosperm
hh Syngamy (PEN) Nucleus (3n)
z One male gamete fuses with egg cell.
z A diploid cell, zygote is formed.
z Zygote later develops into embryo.
Degenerating
z This fusion is termed as syngamy. antipodal cells
hh Triple Fusion
z Other male gamete fuses with two polar nuclei in Fig. Fertilised embryo sac
the central cell.
ff Embryo
z A triploid Primary Endosperm Cell (PEC) is formed.
z PEC later develops into endosperm.
hh Embryo is a diploid cell developing from zygote.
z This fusion is termed as triple fusion as three It starts to develop at the micropylar end. Development
haploid nuclei fuse together. of zygote to form embryo starts only after endosperm
ff Antipodal Cells Degenerate, Synergids Degenerate formation has started. This is because endosperm
Since, two types of fusion take place inside the embryo provides nutrition needed for the embryo to develop.
sac, therefore this fertilisation is said to be double hh Stages of embryo development are same in both
fertilisation in flowering plants. monocot and dicot embryo.
ff Post-fertilisation Events in a Flowering Plant
hh Embryogeny: It refers to the early stages of embryo
Events which take place in a flowering plant after double
development. The embryo development starts with
fertilisation are termed as post-fertilisation events.
the fertilised egg (zygote), then passes through the
Important post-fertilisation events are:
hh Development of endosperm from PEC 2-cell stage, 8-cell stage, globular, heart-shaped stage,
hh Development of embryo from zygote torpedo stage and finally the mature embryo.
hh Development of seed from ovule hh The structure of a dicotyledonous embryo is little
hh Development of fruit from ovary different from that of a monocotyledonous embryo.
 Biology | Class 12 | 13
hh Dicotyledonous Embryo: It has the following 5. Radicle: Embryonic root.
important parts: 6. Plumule: Embryonic shoot.
1. Embryonal Axis hh A monocotyledonous seed has the following important
z Main axis of the embryo which divides it into parts:
different regions.
1. Seed Coat
2. Cotyledons
z Fused with pericarp.
z Seed leaves.
z Bulky part within which lies the small embryo.
z Helps in food storage.
z Massive and starchy endosperm.
z Provide nourishment to the developing radicle and
z Aleurone layer.
plumule.
z Special tissue surrounding the endosperm.
3. Epicotyl
z Part of embryonal axis above the cotyledons. 2. Cotyledon
z Terminates at plumule or stem tip. z Single cotyledon termed as scutellum.

4. Hypocotyl z In contact with endosperm through an epithelial

z Part of embryonal axis below the cotyledons. layer.
z Terminates at radicle or root tip. 3. Plumule: Embryonic shoot covered by protective layer
5. Plumule: Stem tip. coleoptile.
6. Radicle: Root tip. 4. Radicle: Embryonic root covered by protective layer
7. Root Cap: Covering of root tip. coleorrhiza.
hh Monocotyledonous Embryo: It has the following hh Advantages of Seeds: Seeds are extremely useful
important parts: in agriculture. Some of the important advantages of
1. Embryonal Axis: Main axis of the embryo which divides seeds are:
it into different regions. z Help plant species to be colonized in different areas.
2. Cotyledon z Provide nourishment to young seedlings.
z Only one seed leaf exists.
z Ensure protection to the young embryo.
z Termed as scutellum.
z Results in variations with new genetic combinations.
hh Located at one side of embryonal axis.
z Can be easily stored for future usage.
3. Plumule: Shoot tip.
z Long term viability of most of the seeds.
4. Radicle: Root tip.
ff Apomixis and Polyembryony
5. Coleorrhiza: Sheath enclosing radicle and root cap.
hh Apomixis is a mechanism to produce seeds without
6. Coleoptile: Sheath enclosing plumule and a few leaf
primordial enclosed in a hollow foliar structure. fertilisation. This mechanism produces clones, hence,
can be considered as a form of asexual reproduction.
ff Seed
hh Apomixis can occur in a number of ways, some of which
Seed is a fertilised ovule. Integuments of ovule harden to
are mentioned below:
form seed coat, however, micropyle is still present on the
z Nucellar cells which are diploid and located outside
seed coat.
hh Basic structure of a seed consists of the following parts: the embryo sac continuously divide and enter
z Seed Coat: Hard outer covering of the seed.
inside embryo sac and later develop into embryos.
z Radicle: Root tip which later gives rise to the entire In this way, multiple embryos can exist inside one
root system. ovule. This is termed as polyembryony. It is seen
z Plumule: Shoot tip which later gives rise to the entire commonly in Citrus, Mango etc.
shoot system. z Sometimes, the egg cell is not formed as a result of
z Cotyledons: Seed leaves. reduction division, hence, it is diploid. This diploid
hh Based on the number of cotyledons, there are two egg cell later directly develops into an embryo.
types of seeds: hh Apomixis is extremely useful these days because of the
z Dicotyledonous Seed: Seed with 2 cotyledons.
following reasons:
z Monocotyledonous Seed: Seed with 1 cotyledon.
z Clonal reproduction through seeds.
hh A dicotyledonous seed has the following important
z New hybrids produced in lesser time.
parts:
z Disease free plants can be produced.
1. Seed Coat
z Cost-effective.
Outer covering of the seed which is composed of two
ff Parthenocarpy
layers:
z Testa: Thick outer layer.
hh It is the formation of fruit without fertilisation
z Tegmen: Thin inner layer.
(Nitsch, 1965).
2. Hilum: Scar on seed coat through which the seed was hh Parthenocarpy is of three types: genetic, environmental
attached to the fruit. and chemically induced.
3. Micropyle: A small pore in the seed coat through hh Genetic Parthenocarpy: It is due to genetic alternation
which oxygen and water exchange occurs during seed caused by mutation or hybridisation. It is also called
germination. natural parthenocarpy, e.g., navel orange, banana,
4. Cotyledons pineapple, grapes, pear etc.
z Seed leaves. hh Environmental Parthenocarpy: Low temperature,
z Thick and swollen due to food storage. frost and fog have been known to induce parthenocarpy
z Provide nourishment to the developing radicle and in a number of plants, e.g., pear, olive, capsicum, tomato
plumule. etc.
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hh Chemically Induced Parthenocarpy: Spray or paste z Dispersed plants have higher chances of cross
of auxins and gibberellins has been found to induce pollination.
parthenocarpy in several plants, e.g., tomato, cucurbits, z It provides protection against drought, epidemic
Citrus, fig etc. spread of a disease and pest in an area.
ff Significance of Seed Dispersal and Fruit Formation hh Formation of fruit has provided added advantage to
hh The scattering of seed away from the parent plant is angiosperms:
called seed dispersal. z Fruit protects the seeds in their delicate
hh Seed dispersal is a must for plants because: developmental stage.
z Plants are fixed. z Many fruits help the seeds in their dispersal.
z It helps in spreading the plants far and wide z Seed germination is facilitated by remains of the
throughout the area of favourable climate. fruit.
z Dispersal forms a mixed population where z Fleshy edible parts of fruits are a source of food and
competition for the same resources is less. energy.

Practice Exercise
Multiple Choice Questions 
Number Number Number of
Q 1. Cleistogamous flowers are self-pollinated because: of cells at of cells at nuclei left in
 (CBSE 2020) chalazal end micropylar end central cell
a. they are bisexual flowers which do not open at all a. 3 2 3
b. they are bisexual and open flowers b. 3 3 2
c. they are unisexual c. 2 3 3
d. their stigma matures before the anthers dehisce
d. 2 2 4
Q 2. Development of haploid plants from pollen is:
a. emasculation b. parthenocarpy Q 7. Identify the correct labellings in the figure of a
c. androgenesis d. somatic hybridisation fertilised embryo sac of an angiosperm given
Q 3. The structure of bilobed anther consists of: below: (CBSE 2024)
 (CBSE SQP 2021, Term-1)
A
a. 2 thecae, 2 sporangia b. 4 thecae, 4 sporangia
c. 4 thecae, 2 sporangia d. 2 thecae, 4 sporangia B
Q 4. Pollen grains are well preserved as fossils because
of the presence of: (CBSE SQP 2021, Term-1) Primary Endosperm Cell (PEC)
a. sporopollenin b. cellulose C
c. lignocellulose d. pectocellulose
Q 5. Commonly in a mature fertilised ovule n, 2n, 3n
conditions are respectively found in:
 (CBSE SQP 2021, Term-1) D
OR
In a fertilised ovule of an angiosperm, the cells in a. A—zygote, B—degenerating synergids,
which n, 2n and 3n conditions respectively occur
C—degenerating antipodals, D—PEN
are: (CBSE 2024)
a. antipodal, zygote and endosperm b. A—degenerating synergids, B—zygote, C—PEN,
b. zygote, nucellus and endosperm D—degenerating antipodals
c. endosperm, nucellus and zygote c. A—degenerating antipodals, B—PEN,
d. antipodals, synergids and integuments
C—degenerating synergids, D—zygote
Q 6. In the figure of anatropous ovule given below,
d. A—degenerating synergids, B—zygote,
choose the correct option for the characteristic
C—degenerating antipodals, D—PEN
distribution of cells within the typical embryo sac.
 (CBSE SQP 2021, Term-1) Q 8. An orthotropous ovule is one in which micropyle
and chalaza are:
Hilum
Funicle a. oblique to funiculus
Micropyle
Micropylar pole b. at right angles to funiculus
Outer integument
Nucellus
c. in straight line with funiculus
Inner integument d. parallel to funiculus
Embryo sac
Q 9. Stalk of ovule is called:
Chalazal pole a. funicle b. caruncle
c. nucellus d. pedicel
 Biology | Class 12 | 15
Q 10. Enclosed within the integuments of a typical (i) (ii) (iii) (iv)
anatropous ovule is a diploid mass of cellular
a. Middle layers Endothecium Epidermis Tapetum
tissue known as: (CBSE 2021, Term-1)
a. megaspore mother cell b. nucellus b. Tapetum Middle layers Endothecium Epidermis
c. synergids d. embryo sac c. Epidermis Endothecium Middle layers Tapetum
Q 11. The aquatic plant having long and ribbon-like d. Endothecium Middle layers Tapetum Epidermis
pollen grains is: (CBSE 2021, Term-1)
Q 15. Study the following diagram of Transverse Section
a. Vallisneria b. Hydrilla
of a young anther of an angiosperm: (CBSE 2024)
c. Eichhornia d. Zostera
Q 12. Pollen grains retain viability for months in plants
belonging to different families given below: A
B
 (CBSE 2021, Term-1) C
(i) Solanaceae (ii) Leguminosae
(iii) Gramineae (iv) Rosaceae
(v) Liliaceae
The correct option is :

a. (i), (ii) and (v) b. (i), (ii) and (iv)
c. (ii), (iv) and (v) d. (i), (iii) and (v) Select the option where part ‘a’, ‘b’ and ‘c’ are
correctly identified.
Q 13. Which condition of gynoecium (pistil) is shown in
a. A—Connective, B—Endothecium, C—Pollen grain
the figures (i) and (ii)? (CBSE 2021, Term-1) b. A—Endothecium, B—Connective, C—Pollen grain
c. A—Pollen grain, B—Connective, C—Endothecium
d. A—Endothecium, B—Pollen grain, C—Connective
Q 16. A typical angiospermic embryo sac is usually:
a. one-celled b. two-celled
c. five-celled d. seven-celled
Q 17. How many meiotic divisions are necessary to
produce 100 pollen grains?
a. 100 b. 50 c. 25 d. 20
Q 18. In the dioecious aquatic plant shown, identify the
characteristics of the male flowers that reach the
female flowers for pollination:(CBSE SQP 2021, Term-1)

a. (i) multicarpellary apocarpous

(ii) multicarpellary syncarpous
b. (i) multicarpellary syncarpous
(ii) multicarpellary apocarpous
c. (i) bicarpellary apocarpous
(ii) bicarpellary syncarpous
d. (i) bicarpellary syncarpous
(ii) bicarpellary apocarpous
Q 14. In the transverse section of a young anther shown
below, identify the correct sequence of wall layers
from outside to inside: (CBSE 2021, Term-1)
Characteristic
Size of the Colour of
feature of
flower flower
pollen grain
a. small brightly Light weight
coloured and non-sticky
b. large colourless large and
sticky
c. small white small, covered
with mucilage
d. large colourless non sticky
16 |
Q 19. The thalamus contributes to the fruit formation in: Q 24. The coconut water from tender coconut is:
 (CBSE SQP 2021, Term-1)  (CBSE SQP 2021, Term-1)
a. banana b. orange
a. cellular endosperm
c. strawberry d. guava
b. free-nuclear endosperm
Q 20. A botanist studying Viola (common pansy) noticed
c. Both cellular and nuclear endosperm
that one of the two flower types withered and
d. free nuclear embryo
developed no further due to some unfavourable
condition, but the other flower type on the same Q 25. Floral reward’s provided by insect pollinated
plant survived and it resulted in an assured seed flowers to sustain animal visit is/are: 
set. Which of the following will be correct?  (CBSE 2021, Term-1)
 (CBSE SQP 2021, Term-1) a. nectar and fragrance
a. The flower type which survived is cleistogamous b. nectar and pollen grains
and it always exhibits autogamy. c. pollen grains and fragrance
b. The flower type which survived is chasmogamous d. fragrance and bright colour
and it always exhibits geitonogamy.
Q 26. A phenomenon where a male insect mistakenly
c. The flower type which survived is cleistogamous identified the patterns of a orchid flower as the
and it exhibits both autogamy and geitonogamy.
female insect partner, and tries to copulate and
d. The flower type which survived is chasmogamous
thereby pollinates the flower is said to be:
and it never exhibits autogamy.
 (CBSE 2024)
Q 21. To overcome incompatible pollinations so as to
a. Pseudocopulation b. Pseudopollination
get desired hybrids, a plant breeder must have the c. Pseudoparthenocarpy d. Pseudofertilisation
knowledge of ………… . (CBSE 2021, Term-1)
Q 27. Which of the following statements are true related
a. pollen — nucellar interaction
b. pollen — egg cell interaction to seed X and Y? (CBSE SQP 2021, Term-1)
c. pollen — pistil interaction
d. pollen — embryo sac interaction
Q 22. Choose the correct labellings for the parts X, Y
and Z in the given figure of the stages in embryo
development in a dicot: (CBSE 2021, Term-1)

Seed X Seed Y

(i) Seed X is dicot and endospermic or albuminous.

(ii) Seed X is dicot and non-endospermic or non-
albuminous.
(iii) Seed Y is monocot and endospermic or
albuminous.
a. X is suspensor, Y is radicle and Z is cotyledon (iv) Seed Y is monocot and non-endospermic or
b. X is radicle, Y is cotyledon and Z is suspensor non-albuminous.
c. X is cotyledon, Y is suspensor and Z is radicle Choose the correct option with respect to the
nature of the seed.
d. X is zygote, Y is radicle and Z is cotyledon
a. (i), (iii) b. (ii), (iii) c. (i), (iv) d.(ii), (iv)
Q 23. Which of the following outbreeding devices are
Q 28. In a typical dicotyledonous embryo, the portion of
used by majority of flowering plants to prevent
embryonal axis above the level of cotyledons is:
inbreeding depression?
 (CBSE 2021, Term-1)
(i) Pollen release and stigma receptivity are not
a. plumule b. coleoptile
synchronised.
c. epicotyle d. hypocotyle
(ii) Different positions of anther and stigma.
(iii) Production of different types of pollen grains. Q 29. Remnants of nucellus are persistent during seed
(iv) Formation of unisexual flowers along with development in: (CBSE SQP 2023-24)

bisexual flowers. a. pea b. groundnut

(v) Preventing self-pollen from fertilising the c. wheat d. black pepper
ovules by inhibiting pollen germination. Q 30. The wall layer of microsporangium which
 (CBSE 2021, Term-1) nourishes the pollen grain is: (CBSE SQP 2023-24)
a. (i), (ii) and (v) b. (ii), (iii) and (v) a. epidermis b. endothecium
c. (i), (iii) and (v) d. (iii), (iv) and (v) c. middle layers d. tapetum
 Biology | Class 12 | 17
Q 31. Select the option that shows the correctly a. Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is
identified ‘U’, ‘X’, ‘Y’ and ‘Z’ in a developing dicot the correct explanation of Assertion.
embryo. (CBSE 2023) b. Both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is
not the correct explanation of Assertion.
c. Assertion is true but Reason is false.
X d. Assertion is false but Reason is true.
Q 32. Assertion (A): Angiospermic flowers perform the
Z function of sexual reproduction.
Reason (R): The male and female reproductive

structures are found in the flowers.
Y
Q 33. Assertion (A): Nuclear endosperm is formed
by subsequent nuclear division without wall
formation.
Reason (R): Coconut is an example of such endosperm,
U
where the endosperm remains nuclear throughout
a. X — Plumule (2n), Y — Suspensor (n), Z — Cotyledon the development of the fruit.
Q 34. Assertion (A): Chasmogamous flowers require
(2n), U — Radicle (2n).
pollinating agents.
b. X — Plumule (2n), Y — Suspensor (2n), Z — Radicle Reason (R): Cleistogamous flowers do not expose
(2n), U — Cotyledon (2n). their sex organs.
c. X—Suspensor (2n), Y—Cotyledon (2n), Q 35. Assertion (A): The two cotyledons in seed are
Z — Radicle (2n), U — Plumule (2n). embryonic leaves.
d. X—Cotyledon (2n), Y—Radicle (n), Z—Plumule (n), Reason (R): The embryo contains radicle and plumule.
U — Suspensor (n). Q 36. Assertion (A): Many plants are propagated
vegetatively even though they bear seeds.
Assertion & Reason Type Questions  Reason (R): Potatoes multiply by tubers and apple
by cutting.
Directions (Q. Nos. 32-37): Each of the following questions Q 37. Assertion (A): Primary endosperm nucleus is
consists of two statements, one is Assertion (A) and the other diploid.
is Reason (R). Select the correct answer to these questions Reason (R): It is the product of double fertilisation.
from the codes a, b, c and d as given sidwise.  (CBSE SQP 2023-24)

Answers

1. (a) they are bisexual flowers which do not open at all. 4. (a) sporopollenin
Cleistogamy is the phenomenon, where flowers never Pollen grains are well preserved as fossils because
open and in such flowers, only self-pollination occurs of the presence of sporopollenin. Pollen grains have
within the bud (unopen flower). Bisexual flowers a prominent two-layered wall. The hard outer layer
which do not open at all are called cleistogamous. called the exine is made up of sporopollenin, which is
In such flowers, anthers and stigma lie close to each one of the most resistant organic material known.
other. When the anthers dehisce in the flower buds, 5. (a) antipodal, zygote and endosperm
pollen grains come in contact with the stigma and Angiosperms or flowering plants are characterised
pollination occurs. by the process of double fertilisation. It involves the
2. (c) androgenesis fusion of one male gamete (n) with egg (n) resulting
in the formation of a diploid zygote (2n). The other
Pollen culture is a technique of production of haploid
male gamete (n) fuses with a secondary nucleus
plants by the culture of pollen grains obtained from
(2n) to form a triploid endosperm (3n) respectively.
an anther of a plant under the aseptic condition on
So, in a fertilised ovule, n, 2n and 3n conditions occur
artificial media of known composition. It is also known
respectively in antipodal, zygote and endosperm
as androgenesis because it involves the culture of
nucleus.
male gametophyte of the plant. The technique was
6. (b) 3, 3, 2
discovered by Guha and Maheshwari. In an anatropous ovule, there are 3 cells in chalazal
3. (d) 2 thecae, 4 sporangia end, 3 in the micropylar end and 2 nuclei are present
Anther is a bilobed and tetragonal structure. in the central cell of the typical embryo sac.
It is dithecous because each anther lobe has two 7. (b) A—degenerating synergids, B—zygote, C—PEN,
chambers or thecae and long and cylindrical pollen D—degenerating antipodals
sacs or microsporangia are present in the two 8. (c) in straight line with funiculus
chambers of an anther lobe. Hence, we can say 9. (a) funicle
that a bilobed anther is tetrasporangiate. The four 10. (b) nucellus
microsporangia are located at the four corners and Enclosed within the integuments is a mass of cells
they are arranged parallelly to one another. Thus, the called nucellus. It encloses the embryo sac. They
structure of bilobed anther consists of 2 thecae and have abundant food reserves and therefore act as
4 sporangia. nutritive tissues for the embryo in some plants.
18 |
11. (a) Vallisneria Angiospermic flowers perform the process of sexual
12. (b) (i), (ii) and (iv) reproduction. This is because they contain the male
In dicot families like Solanaceae, Rosaceae and and female sex organs of the plant.
Leguminosae the viability of pollen grains remain 33. (c) Assertion is true but Reason is false.
months together after their release. In free nuclear or nuclear type of endosperm, first
13. (b) (i) multicarpellary syncarpous and further divisions of primary endosperm nucleus
(ii) multicarpellary apocarpous are not followed by cytokinesis or wall formation and
14. (d) (i) Endothecium, (ii) Middle layers thus, these free nuclear divisions lead to formation
(iii) Tapetum (iv) Epidermis of a large number of free nuclei in embryo sac.
This type of endosperm formation is observed in
15. (a) A—Connective, B—Endothecium, C—Pollen grain
coconut. Here, the primary endosperm nucleus
16. (d) seven-celled
undergoes a number of free nuclear divisions. When
17. (c) 25 the fruit is about 50 mm long the embryo sac remains
Meiotic divisions are responsible for gamete filled with a watery fluid or milk containing free nuclei
formation. Pollen grains are microscopic bodies that and fine cytoplasmic particles. At a later stage when
contain the male reproductive cell of plant. the fruit becomes about 100 mm in length the liquid
1 meiotic division produces = 4 pollen grains. shows in addition to free nuclei, several cells each
To produce 100 pollen grains = meiotic divisions enclosing variable number of nuclei. Thus coconut
has multicellular endosperm (called coconut meat)
100
required are = = 25 . in the outer part and free nuclear as well as vacuolate
4 endosperm (called coconut milk) in the centre.
18. (c) small, white, small covered with mucilage 34. (b) Both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason
In the given dioecious aquatic plant, the characteristics is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
of the male flowers are: Flowers that have open petals such that the
Size of the flower — small reproductive organs are exposed to allow cross-
Colour of flower — white pollination. Therefore, chasmogamous flowers
Characteristic feature of pollen grain — small, covered require pollinating agents to facilitate and ensure
with mucilage. transfer of pollens. For example, wind, insect,
19. (c) strawberry water and animals serve as pollinating agents.
Thalamus is the globular part of the stem from The chasmogamous flowers are large, conspicuous
where the parts of the flower grow. This thalamus colourful flowers with nectar/scent to attract
may sometimes contribute to the formation of fruit pollinators. This makes Assertion correct. Flowers
in strawberry. that remain close to avoid cross pollination and
20. (a) The flower type which survived is cleistogamous exhibit modifications to facilitate self-pollination are
and it always exhibits autogamy. referred to as cleistogamous flowers. They are small,
21. (c) pollen-pistil interaction bisexual, colourless flowers and do not secrete
nectar; the adaptations to facilitate self-pollination.
22. (c) X is cotyledon, y is suspensor and z is radicle.
23. (a) (i), (ii) and (v) 35. (b) Both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason
is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
24. (b) free-nuclear endosperm
Tender coconut water is a clear liquid found inside of 36. (a) Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason
is the correct explanation of Assertion.
the young tender coconut. During the nuclear phase
of development, it provides as a termination for the The most common form of asexual reproduction
in plants is called vegetative propagation. It is the
endosperm of the coconut. In the nuclear endosperm
formation of new plants from vegetative units
formation, free-nuclear divisions are repeatedly
(propagules) such as buds, tubers, rhizomes,
done, if a cell wall is developed it will form after free
roots, stem, leaf etc. Besides the natural method
nuclear divisions. Commonly referred to as liquid
of vegetative propagation, there are a number of
endosperm. Coconut water from a tender coconut techniques for artificial vegetative propagation of
is an example of this process, i.e., free nuclear economically and aesthetically important plants.
endosperm. Potatoes are produced by tubers and not by seeds.
25. (b) nectar and pollen grains Stem tubers are found in potato and artichoke.
26. (a) Pseudocopulation is a phenomenon in which a They have buds in the region of nodes or eyes for
male insect mistakenly identifies the patterns vegetative multiplication. Root cuttings are used in
or characteristics of a flower often an orchid as propagation of lemon, apple, orange, blackberry etc.
those of a female insect partner. In this process, 37. (d) Assertion is false but Reason is true.
the flower mimics the sexual pheromones.
27. (a) (i), (iii)
28. (c) epicotyle
Case Study Based Questions 
29. (d) black pepper
30. (d) tapetum
Case Study 1
31. (c) X—Suspensor (2n), Y—Cotyledon (2n), Z—Radicle Microsporangium
(2n), U—Plumule (2n). The anther is a four-sided structure consisting of
32. (a) Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason four microsporangia located at the corners two in
is the correct explanation of Assertion. each lobe. The microsporangia develop further
 Biology | Class 12 | 19
and become pollen sacs. In a transverse section, Q 5. Which function of tapetum is correct?
a typical microsporangium appears near circular a. Helps in pollen wall formation.
in outline. It is generally surrounded by four wall b. Transportation of nutrients to inner side of anther.
layers–the epidermis, endothecium, middle layers c. Synthesis of callase enzyme for separation of
and the tapetum. microspore tetrads.
Read the given passage carefully and give the
answer of the following questions: d. All of the above
Q 1. A dithecous anther consists of (A) …………
microsporangia, (B) ………… in each lobe.
Select the option that correctly fills the blanks.
A B 1. (a)   2. (c)    3. (d)    4. (d)    5. (d)
a. four two
b. two one Case Study 2
c. two two Pollen-Pistil Interaction
d. four one Pollen-pistil interaction is the group of events
Q 2. The given diagram shows microsporangium of a
that occur from the time of pollen deposition over
mature anther. Identify A, B and C.
the stigma to the time of pollen tube entry into
ovule. It is a dynamic process which has checks
A at several places for promotion or inhibition of
B
pollen growth. Pollen-pistil interaction is a safety
measure to ensure that illegitimate crossings do
not occur. Compatibility and incompatibility of
C
the pollen-pistil is determined by special proteins.
The compatible pollens are able to absorb water
and nutrients from the surface of the stigma.
They germinate and produce pollen tubes. Pollen
a. A—Middle layer B—Endothecium tubes grow into the style. Their growth and path
C—Tapetum through the style are also determined by specific
b. A—Endothecium B—Tapetum chemicals.
C—Middle layer Read the given passage carefully and give the
c. A—Endothecium B—Middle layer answer of the following questions:
C—Tapetum Q 1. Which of the following parts of gynoecium
d. A—Tapetum B—Middle layer determines the compatible nature of pollen?
a. Stigma b. Style
C—Endothecium
   c. Ovary    d. Thalamus
Q 3. The labelled part X is:
Q 2. In Trifolium, which type of self-incompatibility is
a. dehiscence b. endothecium
found?
c. epidermis d. tapetum a. Gametophytic self-incompatibility (GSI)
b. Sporophytic self-incompatibility (SSI)
c. Both GSI and SSI
d. None of the above
Q 3. Select the incorrect statement:
a. In Asteraceae, incompatibility is due to the
genotype of the sporophytic stigmatic tissues.
b. In members of Brassicaceae, incompatibility is
Q 4. Select the incorrect statement: due to the genotype of the pollen.
a. Microsporangium is generally surrounded by c. Nature has imposed self-incompatibility to avoid
four wall layers—epidermis, endothecium, middle highly homozygous individuals which have a very
layers and tapetum. low survival value.
b. Outer three layers perform functions of protection d. None of the above
and dehiscence of anthers.
Q 4. Which of the following are examples of self-
c. Cells of tapetum possess dense cytoplasm and
incompatibility?
generally have more than one nucleus.
d. Cells of tapetum undergo meiosis and produce a. Tobacco b. Potato
microspore tetrads. c. Crucifers d. All of these
20 |
Q 5. Given figures show the pollen-stigma interaction, The diagram given below shows two plants
where pollen wall proteins are released onto the of the same species showing different types of
pellicle of stigmatic papillae, where recognition pollination.
reaction occurs.
Pollen grain
Pollen wall proteins
Pellicle
Cuticle
Pecto-cellulosic wall

Plasmalemma

Callose

Read the given passage carefully and give the

answer of the following questions:
Q 1. What do you mean by pollination?
Ans. Transfer of pollen grain from the anther to the
stigma of the carpel is called pollination.
P Q
Q 2. Who discovered pollination phenomenon?
Which of the following statements drawn from Ans. The phenomenon was first discovered by Camerarius
given figures is incorrect? in 1694.
a. P indicates compatible reaction in which the
Q 3. What is transferred between the plants in the
pollen tube penetrates the cuticle and grows
process indicated by arrow P?
down the papilla.
Ans. Here, transfer of pollen takes place.
b. Development of callose plug between the
plasma membrane and pectocellulosic layer of OR
stigmatic papillae results in the incompatibility Write the name of processes P, Q and R indicated in

reaction in Q. the above figure.
c. A callose plug which appears at the tip of pollen Ans. P — Geitonogamy
in Q, is dissolved by callose enzyme secreted by Q — Xenogamy
stigma resulting in compatibility reaction.
R — Autogamy
d. Deposition of callose can be employed as a
reliable bioassay to detect compatibility or Case Study 4
incompatibility reactions of pollen and stigma.
Pollination by Insects
Many adaptations are found in flowers to achieve
certain kind of pollination. The pollination
1. (a)   2. (a)   3. (b)    4. (d)    5. (c)
achieved by insects is known as entomophily.
Case Study 3 The given diagram shows the cross-section of an
Pollination anther of an insect pollinated flower.
In angiosperms, the pollen grains are being
transferred from the anther to the stigma and is Y
termed pollination. This phenomenon was first
X
discovered by Camerarius (1694) in the end of
seventeenth century. Pollen grains are immobile.
They can not reach the stigma by themselves.
An external agent is required for this. The
pollination is mainly of two types—self-
pollination and cross-pollination.
 Biology | Class 12 | 21
Read the given passage carefully and give the highly resistant to high temperature, strong acids
answer of the following questions: and alkali. So, pollen grains are obtained as fossils.
Q 1. What are the functions of structure Y? Q 3. State the function of filiform apparatus found in
Ans. The functions of structure Y are: mature embryo sac of an angiosperm. (CBSE 2015)
(i) To transport food and mineral salts to the Ans. The filiform apparatus guides the pollen tube into the
anther. synergid.
(ii) To supply water to the anther.
Q 4. Papaver and Michelia both have multicarpellary
Q 2. How can you accurately describe the structures ovaries. How do they differ from each other?
found in compartment X?  (CBSE 2015)
Ans. The structures found in compartment X contain two
Ans. Papaver has syncarpous gynoecium whereas
haploid nuclei resulting from mitosis.
Michelia has apocarpous gynoecium.
Q 3. What are the likely characteristics of the structures
found in X and stamens of this plant? Q 5. Gynoecium of a flower may be apocarpous or
Ans. The structures found in X have rough surfaces and syncarpous. Explain with the help of an example
stamens of this plant are non-pendulous. each. (CBSE 2019)
OR Ans. The gynoecium represents the female reproductive
Give some examples of insect pollinated plants.
part of the flower. When there are more than one
Ans. Rose, papaya, sunflower, lotus, etc., are some pistil, if the pistils are fused together, the flower is
examples of insect pollinated plants. said to be syncarpous and if the pistils are free, it is
said to be apocarpous. For example, pistil of Papaver
Case Study 5
is syncarpous and that of Michelia is apocarpous.
Cross Pollination
Cross pollination is the transfer of pollen grains
from the anther of one flower to the stigma of a
TiP
Only name of type of gynoecium is sufficient so there
genetically different flower. It is performed with is no need to write the definition.
the help of an external agency which may be
abiotic (e.g., wind, water) or biotic (e.g., insects, Q 6. An anther with malfunctioning tapetum often fails
birds, bats, snails). to produce viable male gametophytes. Give any
Read the given passage carefully and give the one reason.
answer of the following questions: Ans. A malfunctioning tapetum does not provide enough
Q 1. What is the most likely reason for non-germination nourishment to the developing male gametophytes
of pollen grain? and thus fail to produce viable male gametophytes.
Ans. The most likely reason for non-germination of pollen Q 7. Differentiate between the two cells enclosed in a
grain is that it comes from a flower of an incompatible mature male gametophyte of an angiosperm.
species. Ans.
S. Basis of Vegetative
Q 2. What is the function of the pollen tube? Generative cell
No. difference cell
Ans. Pollen tube acts as a conduit to transport male
(i) Size It is bigger It is smaller and
gametes from the stigma to the ovule.
in size. floats in the
Q 3. What is entomophily? cytoplasm of
Ans. Pollination of a flower in which the pollen is carried vegetative cell.
by an insect is called entomophily.
(ii) End It has food It gives rise to two
OR
product reserves. male gametes.
Where is pollen kitt generally found?
Ans. Pollen kitt is generally found in entomophilous Q 8. In the T.S. of a mature anther given below, identify
flowers.
‘a’ and ‘b’ and mention their function. (CBSE 2016)

Very Short Answer Type Questions 

Q 1. Give an example of a plant which came into India
as a contaminant and is a cause of pollen allergy.
Ans. Parthenium or Carrot grass.
Q 2. The microscopic pollen grains of the past are
obtained as fossils. Mention the characteristic of
Ans. ‘a’- Sporogenous tissue: It forms pollen grains.
the pollen grains that makes it happen.
Ans. The exine of pollen grains have an outermost hard ‘b’- Tapetum: It provides nourishment to the developing
layer composed of a chemical, sporopollenin. It is pollen grains.
22 |
Q 9. Name all the haploid cells present in an unfertilised Q 16. How do the pollen grains of Vallisneria protect
mature embryo sac of a flowering plant. Write the themselves?
total number of cells in it. Ans. Pollen grains of Vallisneria have mucilaginous
Ans. The haploid cells in an unfertilised mature embryo covering to prevent them from getting wet.
sac are: egg cell, synergids, antipodals. There are Q 17. ‘Pollen grains in wheat are shed at 3-celled stage
7 cells in total. while in peas they are shed at 2-celled stage.’
Q 10. How is it possible in Oxalis and Viola plants to
Explain. Where are germ pores present in a pollen
produce assured seed-sets even in the absence of grain? (CBSE 2017)
Ans. At the time of shedding, wheat pollen consists of
pollinators?
one vegetative and two male gametes, which is
Ans. Assured seed-sets are possible to be produced
the 3-celled stage. While pea pollen consists of
in Axalis and Viola Plants by the presence of
one vegetative and one generative cell which is the
cleistogamous flowers.
2-celled stage.
Q 11. The meiocyte of rice has 24 chromosomes. How
Germ pores are present on the exine where
many chromosomes are present in its endosperm?
sporopollenin is absent.
Ans. 36 chromosomes are present in its endosperm.
Q 18. Name the organic materials the exine and intine of
Q 12. A bilobed, dithecous anther has 100 microspore
angiosperm pollen grains are made up of. Explain
mother cells per microsporangium. How many
the role of exine.
male gametophytes this anther can produce?
Ans. Exine is made up of sporopollenin and intine is made
Ans. The bilobed anther can produce 1600 male
up of cellulose and pectin.
gametophytes.
Exine is the most resistant organic material and

TiP
can withstand high temperature, acidic and alkali
environment.
Q 19. Where is sporopollenin present in plants? State its
• Each microsporangium has 100 microspore mother significance with reference to its chemical nature.
cells which form 400 microspores by meiosis Ans. Sporopollenin is present in the exine of pollen grains.
(100 × 4 = 400). It is the most resistant organic material in nature.
• In an anther, there are four microsporangia. So, the total
It provides protection to the pollen/gamete/
number of microspores will be 4 × 400 = 1600.
• As each microspore forms one male gametophyte, 1600 gametophyte from unfavourable conditions or
male gametophytes can be produced. chemicals (acids, enzymes and high temperature).
Q 20. How do flowers of Vallisneria get pollinated?
Q 13. How many pollen grains and ovules are likely Ans. In Vallisneria, the female flower stalk is coiled to
to be formed in the anther and the ovary of an reach the water surface for receiving the pollen
angiosperm bearing 25 microspore mother cells grains carried by water currents.
and 25 megaspore mother cells respectively? Q 21. The following statements (i), (ii) and (iii) seem to
Ans. 100 pollen grains and 100 ovules are likely to be describe the water-pollinated submerged plants.
formed. Which one of these statements is incorrect?
(i) The flowers do not produce nectar.
Common eRROR ! (ii) The pollen grains have mucilaginous covering.
Sometimes calculations are not proper and if there are (iii) The brightly coloured female flowers have long
a number of meiosis divisions for seeds, then normally stalk to reach the surface.
students calculate that wrongly. Ans. The brightly coloured female flowers have long
stalk to reach the surface.
Q 14. The flower of brinjal is referred to as chasmogamous
Q 22. Mention the pollinating agent of an inflorescence
while that of beans is cleistogamous. How are they of small dull coloured flowers with well exposed
different from each other? (CBSE 2018) stamens and large feathery stigma. Give any one
Ans. Brinjal has chasmogamous flowers, as they are open characteristic of pollen grains produced by such
with exposed stamen and stigma. Such flowers show flowers.
cross-pollination as well as self-pollination. On the Ans. Pollinating agent of such flowers is wind. Pollen
other hand, beans have cleistogamous flowers, as grains produced by these flowers are light, dry and
they never open at all, even at maturity and they non-sticky.
also show self-pollination. Q 23. Name the type of pollination as a result of which
Q 15. Name the type of flower which favours cross genetically different types of pollen grains of the
pollination. same species land on the stigma.
Ans. Chasmogamous flower favours cross pollination. Ans. Xenogamy.
 Biology | Class 12 | 23
Q 24. Mention the ploidy of the different types of Q 34. List the differences between the embryos of dicot
cells present in the female gametophyte of an (pea) and monocot (grass family).
angiosperm.
S. Basis of Dicot Monocot
Cells in female Ans. No. difference embryo embryo
Ans. [Link]. Ploidy
gametophyte 1. Number of It has two It has one
1. Synergids Haploid cotyledons cotyledons. cotyledon.
2. Egg Haploid 2. Radicle and Radicle and Radicle is
3. Polar nuclei Haploid plumule plumule are covered with
coverage not covered coleorhiza
4. Antipodals Haploid with sheath. and plumule
Q 25. State one advantage and one disadvantage of is covered by
cleistogamy. coleoptile.
Ans. Advantage: Self-pollination as well as seed
production is assured. Q 35. Define parthenocarpy.
Disadvantage: Least variations are observed and it Ans. Parthenocarpy is the production of fruits without
leads to inbreeding depression. fertilisation of ovules. Fruits like banana and figs are
developed without fertilisation and do not produce
Q 26. Name the product of fertilisation that forms the
any viable seeds. A parthenocarpic fruit is devoid
kernel of coconut. How does the kernel differ from
of embryo and endosperm and therefore does not
coconut water?
have any seeds. That is why they are also known as
Ans. Endosperm forms the kernel of coconut.
seedless or virgin fruits.
The coconut water is free-nuclear endosperm,
whereas kernel is cellular endosperm.
Short Answer Type Questions 
Q 27. What is pollen-pistil interaction and how is it
mediated? Q 1. In a flowering plant, a microspore mother
Ans. The ability of the pistil to recognise the pollen cell produce four male gametophytes while a
followed by its acceptance or rejection is called megaspore mother cell form only one female
pollen–pistil interaction. It is mediated by chemical gametophyte. Explain. (CBSE 2017)
components of pollen interacting with those of pistil. Ans. 4 male gametophytes are formed by meiosis of
Q 28. Why are non-albuminous seeds so called? single microspore mother cell whereas female
Ans. Non-albuminous seeds have no residual endosperm gametophytes are formed by meiosis of single
as it is completely consumed during embryo
megaspore mother cell to produce 4 megaspores,
development, e.g., seeds of pea and groundnut.
out of which 3 degenerate and only one survives. The
Q 29. Name the part of the flower which the tassels of surviving megaspore undergoes mitotic division to
the corn-cob represent. form the female gametophyte.
Ans. The tassels of the corn-cob represent style and stigma.
Q 2. A pollen grain in angiosperm at the time of
Q 30. Write the function of coleoptile. dehiscence from an anther could be 2-celled or
Ans. Coleoptile protects the plumule of the monocot embryo.
3-celled. Explain.
Q 31. Write the function of scutellum.
How are the cells placed within the pollen grain,

Ans. Scutellum provides nourishment and protection to
when shed at a 2-celled stage? (CBSE 2016)
the developing embryo.
Ans. In majority of angiosperms, pollens are released
Q 32. List the post-fertilisation events in angiosperms.
in 2-celled stage whereas in other species, the
Ans. The post-fertilisation events are:
generative cell divides into 2 male gametes and
(i) Development of endosperm
forms 3-celled stage.
(ii) Embryogeny/development of embryo
(iii) Seed formation When the pollen grain is shed at 2-celled stage, it
(iv) Fruit formation. has two unequal cells-bigger vegetative cell and
smaller generative cell.
Q 33. ‘‘Farmers prefer apomictic seeds to hybrid seeds.’’
Justify giving two reasons. (CBSE 2024) Q 3. Draw a diagram of pollen grain with germ tube and
Ans. Farmers prefer apomictic seeds to hybrid seeds due two male gametes.
to the following two reasons: Ans. Pollen grain with germ tube and two male gametes
(i) Production of hybrid seeds is costly and hence, is as shown:
the cost of hybrid seeds become too expensive
Exine Intine
for the farmers.
(ii) If these hybrids are made into apomicts there Tube
nucleus
is no segregation of characters in the hybrid
progeny and the farmers can keep on using the Germ tube
Male gametes
hybrid seeds to raise new crop year after year,

24 |

TiP
environmental conditions. This is achieved by the
following techniques:
Practice making diagrams with correct labelling (a) Emasculation: It is the process of removal of
otherwise marks will be deducted. anthers from the bisexual flower bud without
affecting the female reproductive part, i.e., pistil.
Q 4. If the cells in the leaves of a maize plant contain
(b) Bagging: Emasculated flowers are then covered
10 chromosomes each, write the number of
with a suitable bag to prevent contamination of
chromosomes in its endosperm and zygote. Name
its stigma with uncounted pollen. This is called
and explain the process by which an endosperm
bagging.
and a zygote are formed in maize.  (CBSE 2024)
Q 7. List the two steps that are essential for carrying
Ans. Endosperm contains 2n chromosomes where, n is
out artificial hybridisation in crop plants and why?
the haploid number of chromosomes. If leaf cells
Ans. The two steps essential for carrying out artificial
have 10 chromosomes each, the endosperm would
hybridisation in crop plants are:
contain 20 chromosomes.
(i) Selection of Parents: Only those plants should
Zygote is formed by the fusion of a sperm cell and egg
be selected which have desired traits.
cell during fertilisation. It contains 2n chromosomes
(ii) Crossing Over: Pollen grains from selected male
similar to the endosperm. Hence, the zygote would
plant is collected and transferred to the female
also contain 20 chromosomes.
plant after which it is bagged.
Q 5. (i) Draw a labelled diagram of L.S. of a flower to
show the growth of pollen tube reaching egg
apparatus.
Common eRROR !
Students mention only the steps and not the reason for
(ii) Pistil of a flower does not accept pollen from importance in carrying out artificial hybridisation.
any plant other than from its own kind. How
does it happen? Explain. (CBSE 2019) Q 8. Explain the process of artificial hybridisation to
Ans. (i) Longitudinal section of a flower showing growth
get improved crop variety in:
of pollen tube:
(i) Plants bearing bisexual flowers.
Stigma (ii) Female parent producing unisexual flowers.
Ans. (i) In plants bearing bisexual flowers, the anthers
are removed from the flower before they dehisce.
Pollen tube This is called emasculation. The emasculated
flowers are covered with a bag of butter paper to
Antipodal prevent contamination of stigma with unwanted
Polar nuclei pollen. This process is called bagging. When this
Egg cell stigma attains receptivity, mature pollen grains
are dusted on the stigma and the flowers are
Synergid
rebagged to allow the fruits to develop.
(ii) If the female parent produces unisexual flowers,
(ii) The pistil has the ability to recognise pollen, emasculation is not done. The flower buds are
whether it is of right type (compatible) or of bagged before the flowers open. When the
the wrong type (incompatible). It is mediated by stigma becomes receptive, pollen is dusted on
chemical components of the pollen interacting stigma and the flower is rebagged.
with those of the pistil.
Q 9. Write the differences between wind-pollinated
Q 6. State why plant breeders are interested in artificial
hybridisation programme. How do they carry out and insect-pollinated flowers. Give an example of
this process? (CBSE 2024) each type.
Ans. Plant breeders are interested in artificial Ans.
hybridisation programmes because it allows them Insect-
S. Basis of Wind-pollinated
to introduce desirable traits from different plant pollinated
No. difference flowers
flowers
varieties or species into a single plant creating
new cultivates with improved characteristics 1. Number of These produce These produce
pollen grains large numbers less number of
such as higher yield, disease resistance, pest
of pollen grains. pollen grains.   
resistance, better taste or adaptability to specific
 Biology | Class 12 | 25
2. Appearance These are dull, These are OR
nectarless and bright, scented (i) With the help of labelled diagram only, show

scentless. and have nectar. the different stages of embryo development in
3. Stamens Stamens Stamens lie a dicot plant.
are long and within the (ii) Endosperm development precedes embryo

protrude above corolla tube. development. Justify (CBSE 2024)
petals. Ans. (i) The stages of embryo development in a
4. Nature of The pollen The pollen dicotyledonous plant are shown as under:
pollen grains grains are dry, grains are
light, small and larger, Degenerating synergids

smooth. heavier with Zygote (2n)

Primary Endosperm Cell
appendages (PEC)
like hooks and Primary Endosperm Zygote
Nucleus (PEN) (3n)
barbs.
Example: Example: rose, Degenerating Globular embryo
antipodal cells
ragweed. sweet pea. Fertilised embryo sac

TiP Suspensor
Suspensor

Always give such type of difference in tabular Radicle

form instead of a paragraph. Also provide the bases for Cotyledon
differentiating both types of flowers.
Heart-shaped
Q 10. Explain the steps that ensure cross pollination in embryo Plumule
an autogamous flower. Mature embryo
Ans. The steps are:
(ii) Endosperm is filled with reserve food materials
(i) A
 n autogamous or a bisexual flower is which are used for nutrition of the developing
emasculated at unopened stage to prevent self- embryo.
pollination in the flower.
Q 13. One of the major approaches of crop improvement
(ii) It is bagged after emasculation to prevent programme is artificial hybridisation. Explain the
contact of unwanted pollen grain with the steps involved in making sure that only the desired
stigma of the flower. pollen grain pollinate the stigma of a bisexual
(iii) Artificial pollination is then performed when the flower by a plant breeder.  (CBSE 2023)
stigma is ready.
(iv) The flower is then rebagged.
Q 11. Make a list of any three outbreeding devices that EXPERT’S Answer
flowering plants have developed and explain how Ans.   When the desired pollen grains are used for
they help to encourage cross-pollination.(CBSE 2015) pollination and fertilisation to get desired
Ans. The outbreeding devices that flowering plants have progeny, it is called artificial hybridisation.
developed are: Steps of Artificial Hybridisation:
(i) Production of unisexual flowers/dioecious (i) Emasculation: In this step, the anthers
plants, that has ensured cross pollination. (male part) are removed from a bisexual
(ii) Self-incompatibility, a genetic mechanism which flower to avoid unwanted fertilization from
prevents the pollen germination on the stigma the anthers of the same flower. Unisexual
of the same flower. flowers do not require this step.
(iii) Anther and stigma are placed at different (ii) Bagging: In this, the flowers are covered
positions, so that the pollen cannot come in with a bag to avoid landing of unwanted
contact with the stigma of the same flower. pollen grains on the stigma. The bagging is
Q 12. Answer the following questions: done till the flower attains receptivity.
(i) With labelled diagrams, depict stages of embryo (iii) Pollination: Pollens with desired traits are
development of a dicotyledonous plant. dusted onto the flower after the flower is
(ii) Endosperm development precedes embryo ready to receive the pollens.
development. Why? (CBSE 2017)
26 |
Q 14. Draw a transverse sectional view of an apple and (ii) Tapetum is the innermost wall layer and it
label the following parts along with their technical provides nourishment to the developing pollen
names: grains.
(i) edible part Q 2. Describe in sequence the events that lead to
(ii) encloses the embryo the development of a 3-celled pollen grain from
(iii) forms the fruit wall (CBSE 2019)
microspore mother cell in angiosperms.
 (CBSE 2018, 15)
Ans. Transverse sectional view of an apple:
Ans. The events leading to the development of a 3-celled
pollen grain from microspore mother cell in
angiosperms are:
(i) E
 ach cell of the sporogenous tissue in a
microsporangium acts as a potential Pollen
Mother Cell (PMC) or microspore mother cell.
(ii) PMC undergoes meiotic divisions to form cluster
of four cells called microspore tetrad.
(iii) On maturity, the anther dehydrates and the
microspores separate from each other to form
(i) Edible part—Thalamus pollen grains.
(ii) Encloses the embryo—Endocarp (iv) The newly differentiated pollen grain has a
(iii) Forms the fruit wall—Mesocarp central nucleus and dense cytoplasm.
Q 15. What are the importance of seed dispersal? (v) The protoplast mitotically divides into two
Ans. Some importance of seed dispersal are given as unequal cells—bigger vegetative cell which is
below: rich in food reserve and smaller spindle-shaped
(i) Seed dispersal promotes the survival of plant generative cell with dense cytoplasm and a
species. nucleus. This is called 2-celled stage.
(ii) It allows plants to unfold in an extensive area. (vi) In majority of angiosperms, pollens are released
(iii) Thus, preventing plants from competing for in this 2-celled stage, whereas in other species,
light, water and nutrients from the soil, which the generative cell divides into 2 male gametes
occur when plants grow closer to each other. and thus pollen is said to be in 3-celled stage.
Q 3. (i) Explain the monosporic development of
Long Answer Type Questions  embryo sac in the ovule of an angiosperm.
(ii) Draw a diagram of the mature embryo sac of
Q 1. Draw a labelled diagram of an anther lobe at
an angiospermic ovule and label any four parts
microspore mother cell stage. Mention the role of
in it. (CBSE 2023)
different wall layers of anther. (CBSE 2015)

EXPERT’S Answer
Ans. An anther lobe at microspore mother cell stage is
shown by:
Ans.   (i) T
 he formation of the embryo sac or female
(i) Transverse section of a young anther.
gametophyte from a single functional
(ii) Enlarged view of one microsporangium showing
megaspore is called as monosporic
wall layers of anther.
development. The nucleus of functional
C
megaspore divides mitotically to form
two nuclei which move to opposite poles.
This form a two-nucleate embryo sac.
Two more sequential mitotic nuclear
divisions result in the formation of four-
nucleate and eight-nucleate stages of
embryo sac. These mitotic divisions are
free nuclear type in which karyokinesis is
not followed immediately by cytokinesis.
Roles of different wall layers of anther: After the eight-nucleate stage, the walls
(i) Epidermis, endothecium and middle layers are laid down leading to the organisation
perform the function of protection and help in of the typical female gametophyte. Six of
dehiscence of anther to release the pollen. eight nuclei are surrounded by cell walls
 Biology | Class 12 | 27
and organised into cells. The remaining two already fused) to form a triploid Primary
nuclei called polar nuclei are situated below Endosperm Nucleus (PEN) that develops into
the egg apparatus in the large central cell. endosperm.
A typical angiosperm embryo sac at (d) The three antipodals at chalazal end and
maturity is eight nucleated and seven celled synergids at micropylar end start degenerating.
Q 5. (i) Can a plant flowering in Mumbai be pollinated
structure. Three cells lie at micropylar end
by pollen grains of the same species growing
forming egg apparatus. Three cells lie at
in New Delhi? Provide explanations to your
chalazal end called as antipodal cells. A
answer.
single large central cell which has two polar
(ii) Draw the diagram of a pistil where pollination
nuclei is as shown.
has successfully occurred. Label the parts
(ii) Mature embryo sac involved in reaching the male gametes to its
Chalazal end desired destination.  (CBSE 2019, 17)
Antipodals OR
Draw a longitudinal section of the pistil from a
flowering plant, where pollination has occurred.
Label the following: (CBSE 2020)
(i) Stigma showing germinating pollen grains
(ii) Style
Polar nuclei
(iii) Pollen tube reaching the micropyle of the ovule
Egg (iv) Embryo sac
(v) Components of the egg apparatus
Synergids
Ans. (i) It is possible by artificial hybridisation where
pollen grain of one flower is introduced artificially
on the stigma of another flower. But there should
Micropylar end
not be self-incompatibility.
(a) In one flower, emasculation is done by removal
Q 4. (i) Draw a diagrammatic sketch of the sectional
of anthers and then flower is bagged.
view of a typical anatropous ovule.
(b) After some time, the bag is removed and then
(ii) List the components of the embryo sac and
desired pollen grains are introduced on its
mention their fate on fertilisation.
stigma.
Ans. (i) Sectional view of a typical anatropous ovule:
(ii) Diagram of a pistil with successful pollination:
Chalaza

Nucellus Raphe
Stigma (i)
Integuments
Antipodal
cells Style (ii)
Pollen tube (iii)
Embryo sac Two polar nuclei
Embryo sac (iv)
Egg
Synergids Antipodal cells
(Oosphere) Vegetative male
Vascular nucleus Polar nuclei
strand
Egg cell
Two male nuclei Egg (v)
Micropyle Funiculus in pollen tube Synergid apparatus
   cell
(ii) Components of embryo sac: 2 polar nuclei, 1 egg Micropyle
cell, 2 synergids and 3 antipodal cells.
The parts involved in reaching the male gametes
Fate of embryo sac components on fertilisation to its desired location are:
(a) After positive pollen−pistil interaction,
stigma, pollen tube, synergid cell, micropyle.
the pollen tube develops and enters the Q 6. Trace the events that would take place in a
ovule through synergids guided by filiform flower from the time the pollen grain of the same
apparatus. species fall on the stigma up to the completion of
(b) One of the male gamete fertilises the female fertilisation. (CBSE 2015)
gamete to form diploid zygote. Ans. The events that take place in a flower are:
(c) The other male gamete fuses with the (i) When pollen grain lands over the stigma, it starts
secondary nucleus (polar nuclei if they are germinating and produces a pollen tube through a
28 |
germ pore. Pollen tube passes through style and Q 8. (i) Describe any two devices in a flowering plant
reaches the ovule. which prevent both autogamy and geitonogamy.
(ii) The generative cell divides and forms two male (ii) Explain the events up to double fertilisation
gametes. Finally the pollen tube enters the after the pollen tube enters one of the synergids
embryo sac through micropyle. in an ovule of an angiosperm. (CBSE 2015)
(iii) Now, the pollen tube enters the egg apparatus Ans. (i) A  utogamy: It is the transfer of pollen grains from
through one of the synergids with the help of anther to the stigma of same flower.
filiform apparatus. The vegetative nucleus
Geitonogamy: It is the transfer of pollen grains
degenerates while pollen tube leaves two male
from anther to the stigma of another flower of
gametes in embryo sac.
same plant.
(iv) Now, one of the male gamete fuses with the egg
Two devices that prevent both autogamy and
cell to form diploid zygote known as syngamy.
geitonogamy are:
(v) The other male gamete fuses with the two
already fused polar nuclei (called secondary (a) Self-incompatibility: This is a genetic
nucleus) and forms triploid Primary Endosperm mechanism and prevents self-pollen from
Nucleus (PEN) which later gives rise to fertilising the ovules by inhibiting pollen
endosperm. This is called triple fusion. germination or pollen tube growth in the
Hence, syngamy and triple fusion together are known pistil.
as double fertilisation. (b) Dioecious Plants: Male and female flowers
Q 7. Draw a labelled diagram of the sectional view of are present on different plants, that is, each
a mature pollen grain in angiosperms. Explain the plant is either male or female.
functions of its different parts. (ii) The events seen after the pollen tube enters one
OR of the synergids in an ovule are as follows:
Draw a well-labelled diagram of sectional view of
(a) Pollen tube, after reaching the ovary, enters
male gametophyte/microspore of an angiosperm
the ovule through the micropyle and thus
and write the functions of any two parts labelled.
enters one of the synergids through filiform
(Any four labels). (CBSE 2024)
apparatus.
Ans. Sectional view of a mature pollen grain in
(b) After entering one of synergids, the pollen
angiosperms:
tube releases the two male gametes into the
cytoplasm of the synergid.
(c) One of the male gametes moves towards
the egg cell and fuses with its nucleus thus,
resulting in the formation of zygote (diploid
cell). This is syngamy.
(d) The other male gamete move towards the two
polar nuclei located in the central cell and fuses
to form triploid Primary Endosperm Nucleus
Functions: (PEN). This involves fusion of three haploid
(i) Pollen grains are generally spherical with a nuclei and hence termed as triple fusion.
prominent two-layered wall. The hard outer (e) Two types of fusions, syngamy and triple fusion
layer is called exine made up of sporopollenin, takes place in an embryo sac and hence the
which is a resistant organic material. phenomenon is termed as double fertilisation.
(ii) Exine can withstand high temperature, strong (f) After fertilisation, PEN becomes the Primary
acids and alkali, and thus provide protection. Endosperm Cell (PEC) and develops into
It has prominent aperture called germ pore, endosperm while zygote develops into an
through which pollen tube comes out. embryo.
(iii) Vegetative cell has abundant food reserve.
(iv) Generative cell divides mitotically giving rise Polar nuclei
Central cell
to two male gametes, before pollen grains are
Plasma
shed (3-celled stage). Egg membrane Male
nucleus Synergid gametes

TiP
Filiform
apparatus
Male gametes
Vegetative
Practice the sectional view diagrams along with their nucleus (b) Discharge of male gametes
labelling. Also learn thoroughly the functions of its labelled (a) Entry of tube into a synergid, then to egg
parts. into a synergid and central cell
 Biology | Class 12 | 29
Q 9. the ovule are together called pollen–pistil
interactions.
(ii) It is a dynamic process involving pollen recognition
by stigma/pistil for compatible pollen.
A
(iii) Incompatible pollens or sterile pollens are
rejected by the pistil and do not allow growth of
pollen tube.
(iv) Compatible pollens are encouraged by pistil for
growth and development of pollen tubes.
(v) The pollen tube grows through stigma and style
B to reach the ovary.
(vi) It then enters the ovule through micropyle and
reaches the synergids, guided by filiform apparatus.

Observe the picture of Commelina plant bearing

Central cell
two types of flowers given above.
Plasma
(i) Identify the two types of flowers labelled ‘A’ and Egg membrane
nucleus Synergid
‘B’ in the picture.
Filiform
(ii) Compare the two types of flowers with apparatus
Pollen tube Male gametes
reference to : Vegetative
(1) Characteristic feature nucleus
(b) Enlarged view
(2) Modes of pollination Antipodal
of egg apparatus
(iii) List any two ‘out breeding devices’ in flowering Polar nuclei Polar nuclei
plants. Explain why do plants develop such Egg cell
devices. (CBSE 2024)
Male
Synergid
Ans. (i) The two types of flowers labelled ‘A’ and ‘B’ are : gametes
A­—Chasmogamous flower
(a) Longitudinal section of a flower
B—Cleistogamous flower showing growth of pollen tube
(ii) Comparison of two flowers :
(c) Discharge of male gametes
(1) Chasmogamous flowers have exposed into synergid
anthers and stigma but cleistogamous
(vii) On reaching the synergid, pollen tube releases the
flowers have the anthers and stigma lie close
two male gametes into cytoplasm of synergid.
to each other.
(viii) One of the male gamete fuses with egg nucleus
(2) Chasmogamous flowers are usually cross-
to form a diploid cell called zygote. This event is
pollinated and so they require pollinators. On
called syngamy.
the other hand, cleistogamous flowers can
(ix) Other male gamete fuses with polar nuclei at the
only carry out self-pollination.
centre to produce a triploid Primary Endosperm
(iii) The two out breeding devices in flowering plants
Nucleus (PEN). This is termed as triple fusion.
are:
(x) As syngamy and triple fusion take place

1. Dioecism: Plant has either the male flowers
simultaneously in the embryo sac, it is termed as
or the female flowers so that self-fertilisation
double fertilisation.
never occurs.

TiP

2. Dichogamy: It is the process of differential
maturation of anther and stigma.
Plants develop such devices in order to prevent Learn the events of fertilisation in sequence and
the occurrence of self-fertilisation in plants. practice the associated diagrams.
Q 10. Explain the events upto fertilisation that occur in
Q 11. Explain double fertilisation and trace the post-
a flower after the pollen grain has landed on its fertilisation events in sequential order leading to
compatible stigma. seed formation in a typical dicotyledonous plant.
Ans. The events upto fertilisation that occur in a flower OR
after the pollen grain has landed on its compatible Double fertilisation is an event unique to all

stigma are: flowering plants. Explain the process.  (CBSE 2023)
(i) All the events from pollen deposition on the Ans. Double Fertilisation:
stigma until the entry of the pollen tubes into (i) On reaching synergid, pollen tube releases the
two male gametes into cytoplasm of synergid.
30 |
(ii) One of the male gamete fuses with egg nucleus nucleus) and forms triploid Primary Endosperm
to form a diploid cell called zygote. This event is Nucleus (PEN) which later gives rise to
called syngamy.
endosperm. This is called triple fusion.
(iii) Other male gamete fuses with polar nuclei at the
centre to produce a triploid Primary Endosperm Synergids play an important role in the reproduction
Nucleus (PEN). This is termed as triple fusion. of flowering plants. They help the entry of the male
(iv) As syngamy and triple fusion take place gamete into the embryo sac and the fusion of male
simultaneously in the embryo sac. Because of the gamete with the egg.
involvement of two fusions, this event is termed (ii) Endosperm develops before the embryo because
as double fertilisation. This is a unique event to the cells of the endosperm provide nutrition to the
angiosperms.
developing embryo.
(v) The central cell after triple fusion forms Primary
Q 13. Draw a labelled diagram of the L.S. of embryo of
Endosperm Cell (PEC) which later develops into
endosperm. grasses. How does it differ from that of bean?
(vi) The zygote later develops into an embryo. Ans. Longitudinal Section of embryo of grasses:

Post-fertilisation Events:
(i) Development of Embryo: Embryo develops
in fertilised ovule, from the zygote. The early
stages of embryo development from a zygote
are known as embryogeny. The formation of
embryo starts only after certain amount of
endosperm formation to assure the nutrition
supply, for development and growth of embryo.
(ii) Development of Seeds: As a result of double
fertilisation, number of changes takes place
in an ovule such as 2-cell stage, 8-cell stage, 

globular, heart shaped stage, torpedo stage and Differences between embryo of grass and bean:
finally the mature embryo due to which ovule is S. Basis of
Embryo of grass Embryo of bean
converted into seeds. No. difference
Q 12. (i) Explain the process of double fertilization in 1. Number of The seed has a The seed has
an angiosperm starting from the germination cotyledons single cotyledon two cotyledons,
of pollen grains on the stigma, mentioning the (scutellum), i.e., it is i.e., it is
ploidy of the end products formed at the end. monocotyledonous. dicotyledonous.
State the role of synergids during the course of 2. Plumule The plumule is There is no such
process. protection protected by a protection for
(ii) Why does the development of endosperm foliaceous sheath the plumule in
precede that of the embryo? (CBSE 2024) called coleoptile. bean.
Ans. (i) Process of Double Fertilisation:
3. Radicle The radicle is There is no
(a) W
 hen pollen grain lands over the stigma, it starts
germinating and produces a pollen tube through a protection protected by such protective
germ pore. Pollen tube passes through style and coleorhiza. covering for the
reaches the ovule. radicle.
(b) The generative cell divides and forms two male
Q 14. (i) When a seed of an orange is squeezed, many
gametes. Finally the pollen tube enters the
embryos, instead of one are observed. Explain
embryo sac through micropyle.
how is it possible.
(c) Now, the pollen tube enters the egg apparatus
(ii) Are these embryos genetically similar or
through one of the synergids with the help of
different? Comment. (CBSE 2017)
filiform apparatus. The vegetative nucleus
Ans. (i) It is possible due to polyembryony. Occurrence
degenerates while pollen tube leaves two male of more than one embryo in a seed is called as
gametes in embryo sac. polyembryony.
(d) Now, one of the male gamete fuses with the egg  In orange, the nucellar cells, synergid or
cell to form diploid zygote known as syngamy. integument cells develop into a number of
(e) The other male gamete fuses with the two embryos of different sizes.
already fused polar nuclei (called secondary  Example: Citrus.
 Biology | Class 12 | 31
 Sometimes formation of more than one egg in nucellus or in the integuments, e.g., in oranges
an embryo sac can lead to polyembryony. and roses. Since, it takes place outside the
embryo sac, it is not grouped with recurrent
(ii) In such embryos, parental characters are
apomixis. Embryo within the embryo sac
maintained hence they are genetically similar.
may also develop simultaneously, thus,
In this process, there is no segregation of
giving rise to polyembryony condition, as in
characters in the offspring (progeny).
Citrus, Opuntia.
Q 15. (i) Explain any two ways by which apomictic seed (ii) An advantage of apomictic crop is that the vigour
can develop. (CBSE 2018) is maintained and these seeds can be raised
(ii) List one advantage and one disadvantage of an to grow new crop year after year resulting in
apomictic crop. tremendous crop production. 
(iii) Why do farmers find production of hybrid seeds A disadvantage of the apomictic crop is that it
costly?
reduces genetic diversity.
Ans. (i) The two ways in which apomictic seeds can
(iii) The production of hybrid seeds involves a
develop are:
(a) Recurrent Apomixis: An embryo sac process of artificial hybridisation that comes
develops from the megaspore mother cell along with steps such as emasculation, bagging,
with disturbed meiosis due to which the raising of seedlings in nursery beds, etc.
egg-cell is diploid. The embryo subsequently This process requires intensive labour and is
develops directly from the diploid egg-cell also not feasible economically for all farmers.
without fertilisation.
Also, the hybrid seeds can not be used for the
(b) Adventive Polyembryony: Embryos arise
from a cell or a group of cells either in the next season. This further adds to their cost.

Chapter Test
Multiple Choice Questions Case Study Based Questions
Q 1. In a fully developed male gametophyte of flowering Case Study 1
plants, the number of nuclei is:
a. one b. two c. three    d. four Q 6. The ovule or the megasporangium develops as
Q 2. The filiform apparatus is present in: a small protuberance of the placental tissue.
a. synergids b. egg cell In the very young ovule, a single hypodermal
c. antipodal cell d. secondary nucleus
cell is differentiated as the archesporium. This
Q 3. Part of the gynoecium which receives the pollen is
archesporium cell may or may not cut off some
called:
a. style b. stigma parietal cells and then becomes the Megaspore
c. ovule d. ovary Mother Cell (MMC). The MMC undergoes
Assertion and Reason Type Questions division to form megaspore cells. Meanwhile
Directions (Q. Nos. 4-5): Each of the following questions two integuments develop from the base of the
consists of two statements, one is Assertion (A) and the other ovule.
is Reason (R). Select the correct answer to these questions (i) An ovule is a:
from the codes a, b, c and d as given below:
a. differentiated megasporangium
a. Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is
b. dedifferentiated megasporangium
the correct explanation of Assertion. c. integumented megasporangium
b. Both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is d. redifferentiated megasporangium
not the correct explanation of Assertion. (ii) Embryo sac is called:
c. Assertion is true but Reason is false. a. female gamete b. synergids
d. Both Assertion and Reason are false. c. female gametophyte d. egg of angiosperm
Q 4. Assertion (A): Pollen wall is made up of two walls (iii) Megasporogenesis is the:
the intine and the exine. a. formation of fruits
Reason (R): Both the walls have depositions of b. formation of seeds
sporopollenin. c. formation of megaspores
Q 5. Assertion (A): Cross pollination is the only means d. Both b. and c.
of pollination in unisexual flowers. (iv) Megaspore mother cell is found near the region of:
Reason (R): Self-sterility is the only way to prevent a. micropyle b. chalaza
self-pollination in bisexual flowers. c. nucellus d. integuments
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Case Study 2 Very Short Answer Type Questions
Q 7. Q 8. What is meant by emasculation?
Pollination is the act of transferring pollen grains Q 9. Why is apple called a false fruit? Which part of the
from male anther of a flower to the female stigma. flower forms the fruit.
Q 10. Name the structures formed at the end of
The goal of every living organism including plants microsporogenesis and megasporogenesis?
is to create offspring for the next generation.
Short Answer Type Questions
One of the ways that plants can produce offspring
is by making seeds which then germinate to Q 11. Mention two strategies evolved to prevent
produce new plants. Two types of flowers with self-pollination in flowers.
their pollination seen in plants are chasmogamy Q 12. Why do you think zygote is dormant for sometime
and cleistogamy. Chasmogamous flowers have in a fertilised ovule?
strikingly coloured petals and nectar guides/ Long Answer Type Questions
nectaries in contrast to cleistogamous flowers Q 13. (i) With the help of labelled diagram only, show
which are minute bud-like. the different stages of embryo development in
Read the given passage carefully and give the a dicot plant.
answer of the answer of the following questions: (ii) Endosperm development precedes embryo

(i) Define pollination. development. Justify.
(ii) Are cleistogamous flowers strictly autogamous? Q 14. With a neat diagram, explain the 7-celled,
(iii) What is the advantage of cleistogamy? 8-nucleate nature of female gametophyte.
OR
What are chasmogamous flowers?