Problem 52 - Objective Biology for NEET

Question

In cymose the type of inflorescence is A. Main axis terminates into flower. B. Flower born in basipetal order. C. Main axis not terminates into flower. D. Flower born in acropetal order. (a) A and B only (b) \(\mathrm{C}\) and \(\mathrm{D}\) only (c) A and C only (d) \(\mathrm{B}\) and \(\mathrm{C}\) only

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The correct options are (a), A and B only.

Step 1: Understand What a Cymose Inflorescence Is

A cymose inflorescence is a type of flower cluster where the main stem ends with a flower and additional flowers sprout from lateral buds below it.

Step 2: Match the Definition to the Choices

In light of that definition, let us match the characteristics to the choices. A cymose has its main axis terminating into a flower and the flowers bloom in a basipetal order (from top to bottom).

Step 3: Identify the Correct Choices

Looking at the options we have, the features of a cymose inflorescence fit into options 'A' and 'B'. Therefore the correct pair is A and B only.

Key Concepts

Types of Inflorescence

The term 'inflorescence' refers to the arrangement of flowers on a plant. It's fundamental to know that there are two main types of inflorescence: cymose and racemose. In cymose inflorescence, each main axis or branch terminates in a single flower. Examples include the oleander and bougainvillea. The main characteristic of cymose inflorescence is its determinate growth, meaning the main axis doesn't continue to grow after the formation of the terminal flower. This contrasts with racemose inflorescence, where the main axis continues to grow, and flowers develop in an acropetal order, with the youngest flowers at the top and the oldest at the base, such as in the mustard plant.

Understanding these types of inflorescence is essential for botany students preparing for competitive exams like NEET, as they form the basis of many questions related to plant morphology and reproduction.

Basipetal Flowering Order

When studying inflorescence patterns, the term 'basipetal' refers to the sequence of flower blooming. In basipetal flowering order, the oldest flowers are at the top or starting point of the flower axis, and the sequence of flowering proceeds downwards, or towards the base, hence the term basipetal. This is the characteristic blooming pattern seen in cymose inflorescence. It illustrates a top-to-bottom blooming sequence, which is the opposite of acropetal flowering found in racemose inflorescence.

NEET aspirants should grasp this concept as it not only helps them to identify flower types and arrangements accurately but also underpins their understanding of diverse growth patterns within the plant kingdom, a crucial component of the botany syllabus.

Botanical Concepts for NEET

Preparing for NEET requires a comprehensive understanding of botanical concepts, one of which is the intricate details of inflorescence. Students should be adept at distinguishing between cymose and racemose inflorescence, knowing the growth patterns, and identifying flowering order. Comprehending these concepts is not just about memorization--students should aim to visualize and apply this knowledge, conceptualizing how plants grow and develop. Botanical illustrations and real-life plant observations can significantly enhance understanding. Moreover, mastering these concepts is invaluable for excelling in NEET and ensuring a strong foundation for further studies in biology and botany.