Biology MCQs
Topic Notes: Biology
MCQs and preparation resources for competitive exams, covering important concepts, past papers, and detailed explanations.
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
91
In which type of dicot root apex are there two layers of initials at the tip, one forming the central cylinder and the other forming the cortex and root cap?
Answer:
Casuarina type
The Casuarina type of root apical organization is characterized by a specific arrangement where two distinct layers of initials are present. One layer gives rise to the central vascular cylinder (stele), while the other layer is responsible for the development of both the cortex and the root cap, a unique structural pattern in root development.
92
From which part of the plant is opium commercially extracted?
Answer:
dried latex
Opium is obtained by incising the unripe seed capsules of the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum). The milky exudate, or latex, that flows from these incisions is collected and allowed to air-dry into a sticky, brown substance known as raw opium. This latex contains various alkaloids, including morphine and codeine, which have significant pharmacological applications.
93
How are drought-enduring plants, such as those in the genus Acacia, classified based on their growth habit and life cycle?
Answer:
Nonsucculent perennials
Acacia species are typically woody plants that do not store significant water in their tissues, making them nonsucculent. Because they live for many years and flower repeatedly throughout their lifespan, they are categorized as perennials. These adaptations allow them to survive in arid environments by developing deep root systems rather than relying on water storage.
94
Which of the following plant structures is considered a modified stem?
Answer:
Potato
A potato tuber is a modified underground stem. It exhibits characteristic stem features such as nodes (the 'eyes'), internodes, and axillary buds, which can sprout to form new plants. In contrast, carrots and sweet potatoes are modified taproots or adventitious roots, respectively, which serve as storage organs for the plant.
95
Which of the following plant barks is widely used as a culinary condiment?
Answer:
cinnamon
Cinnamon is a popular spice obtained from the inner bark of several tree species from the genus Cinnamomum. The bark is harvested, dried, and either sold as quills (sticks) or ground into a powder. It is highly valued for its aromatic properties and is used globally as a condiment in both sweet and savory dishes.
96
Which crop is primarily affected by the pest known as Pyrilla?
Answer:
Sugarcane
Pyrilla perpusilla, commonly known as the sugarcane leafhopper, is a significant sap-sucking pest that targets sugarcane crops. It feeds on the phloem sap of the leaves, leading to reduced sugar content and stunted growth of the plant. Effective management of this pest is crucial for maintaining high yields in the sugar industry.
97
In a mature plant cell, which layer is considered the innermost portion of the cell wall?
Answer:
secondary cell wall
The plant cell wall consists of several layers. The primary cell wall is deposited first during cell growth. Once the cell stops growing, a secondary cell wall is often deposited between the primary wall and the plasma membrane. Because it is deposited last and is closest to the cytoplasm, the secondary cell wall is considered the innermost layer of the cell wall structure.
98
In which plant genus do sclerenchyma fibers originate in the primary cortex to form a continuous cylinder?
Answer:
Aristolochia
In the stem anatomy of Aristolochia, the sclerenchyma fibers develop within the primary cortex. These fibers differentiate and arrange themselves to form a complete, ring-like cylinder around the vascular tissues. This structural arrangement provides significant mechanical support and protection to the internal stem tissues, which is a characteristic anatomical feature often studied in plant histology.
99
What is the primary edible portion of an onion bulb?
Answer:
fleshy leaves
An onion bulb is a modified shoot system consisting of a short, compressed stem (the basal plate) surrounded by thick, fleshy, scale-like leaves. These leaves are specialized for the storage of nutrients and water, which the plant uses to survive unfavorable conditions. The edible part we consume is primarily these modified, fleshy storage leaves.
100
Which of the following plants is classified as an insectivorous plant?
Answer:
Pitcher plant
The pitcher plant is a well-known insectivorous plant. It has evolved specialized leaves shaped like pitchers to trap and digest insects. This adaptation allows the plant to supplement its nutrient intake, particularly nitrogen, in environments where the soil is nutrient-poor.