Question

Match the adaptations given in column 1 with the advantages in column 2.

$\begin{array}{cc}Adaptations& Advantages\\ a.\text{Spiny leaves}& \left(i\right)\text{Absorbing water from depths of soil}\\ b.\text{Thick, round fleshy stems}& \left(ii\right)\text{Prevent loss of water by transpiration}\\ c.\text{Deep roots}& \left(iii\right)\text{Store water}\\ d.\text{Closed stomata during the day}& \left(iv\right)\text{Prevent animals from eating the plant}\end{array}$

• A. a – (iv) ; b – (ii) ; c - (iv), (iii) ; d – (i)
• B. a – (ii), (iv) ; b – (ii), (iv) ; c - (i) ; d – (iii)
• C. a – (ii), (iv) ; b – (ii) ; c - (i) ; d – (iii)
• D. a – (ii), (iv); b – (iii) ; c - (i) ; d – (ii)

Answer 1

The correct option is D

a – (ii), (iv); b – (iii) ; c - (i) ; d – (ii)

In plants like cacti, various types of modifications can be observed. To prevent the loss of water, leaves are modified into thorns. This reduces the surface area and hence water loss by transpiration. The stems become large and succulent, i.e., they become fleshy and store water. So, the green part we see in cacti are stems. The stomata present in this part of the plant are also kept closed during the day to prevent loss of water. The root system of cacti is well developed and roots go deep into the soil in search of water.