Question

From the following groups, select the one which has only secondary metabolites.

• A. Arbrin, cellulose, arginine, tyrosine
• B. Glycine, gums, serine, diterpenes
  
• C. Carotenoids, phenylalanine, curcumin, rubber
  
• D. Concanavalin-A, morphine, codeine, vinblastine

Answer 1

The correct option is D Concanavalin-A, morphine, codeine, vinblastine

Secondary metabolites are derivatives of primary metabolites which have no direct function in growth and development of plants. These compounds are accessory rather than central to the functioning, e.g., arbrin, gums, diterpenes, carotenoids, curcumin, rubber etc. Arginine, tyrosine, glycine, serine and phenylalanine are amino acids, which are primary metabolites.