Question

Consider the following statements.
(a) In a dicot root, the vascular bundles are collateral and endarch.
(b) The inner most layer of cortex in a dicot root is endodermis.
(c) In a dicot root, the phloem masses are separated from the xylem by conjunctive tissue.
Of the above given statements

• A. (a) is true; but (b) and (c) are false
• B. (b) is true; but (a) and (c) are false
• C. (a) is false; but (b) and (c) are true
• D. (c) is false ; but (a) and (b) are true
• E. (c) is true; but (a) and (b) are false

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

(a) is false; but (b) and (c) are true

Dicot root shows radial vascular bundles, i.e., vascular bundles arranged in a ring. In this type of vascular bundle, the xylem and phloem are situated at different radii. Xylem is of exarch type, i.e., protoxylem is away from centre and metaxylem is towards centre. Hence, statement (a) is wrong.
The innermost layer of cortex in a dicot root is endodermis. It completely surrounds the stele. It consists of single layer of barrel shaped cells which lack intercellular spaces. Hence, statement (b) is correct.
In a dicot root, the phloem masses are separated from the xylem by conjunctive tissues. Later, vascular cambium forms from this conjunctive tissue. Hence, statement (c) is correct.
Thus, the correct answer is '(a) is false; but (b) and (c) are true'.