The following question refers to the generalized life cycle for land plants shown in the figure. Each number within a circle or square represents a specific plant or plant part, and each number over an arrow represents meiosis, mitosis, or fertilization.

In the figure, which number represents the mature gametophyte?
A) 1
B) 3
C) 7
D) 11

Question

The following question refers to the generalized life cycle for land plants shown in the figure. Each number within a circle or square represents a specific plant or plant part, and each number over an arrow represents meiosis, mitosis, or fertilization.

In the figure, which number represents the mature gametophyte?

In the figure, which number represents the mature gametophyte?
A) 1 
B) 3 
C) 7 
D) 11

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the generalized life cycle for land plants, the mature haploid gametophyte produces gametes. Number 7 represents the mature gametophyte because it is haploid and is not connected to any diploid sporophyte structures. Numbers 1 and 3 are diploid sporophyte structures, while number 11 is the zygote, which is a diploid structure formed by fertilization.

The Following Question Refers to the Generalized Life Cycle for Land