Question

In how many cells the meiotic division has taken place if the total number of pollen grains (male gametes in a flower) is 32?

• A. 16
• B. 8
• C. 4
• D. 5

Answer 1

The correct option is B

8

The correct option is B:

Explanation of the correct option

1. In the case of meiosis, one cell will undergo meiosis and produce 4 daughter cells.
2. Pollen grains are haploid, here we have 32 pollen grains. To produce 4 pollen grains one cell is required. So, for producing 32 pollen grains ¼*32 cells are required i.e., 8.

Explanation of the incorrect options

Option A:

In the case of meiosis, one cell will undergo meiosis and produce 4 daughter cells. Thus, 16 cells will produce 16 * 4 pollen grains i.e., 64.

Option C:

In the case of meiosis, one cell will undergo meiosis and produce 4 daughter cells. Thus, 4 cells will produce 4* 4 pollen grains i.e., 16.

Option D:

In the case of meiosis, one cell will undergo meiosis and produce 4 daughter cells. Thus, 5 cells will produce 5* 4 pollen grains i.e., 20.

Final answer:

If the total number of pollen grains was 32, meiotic division occurred in 8 cells.