Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
In the life cycle of sexual reproducers, what is the difference between a gametophyte dominant and a sporophyte dominant life cycle?
A
A gametophyte dominant life cycle has a larger and longer-lived sporophyte stage compared to the gametophyte stage.
B
A sporophyte dominant life cycle has equal gametophyte and sporophyte stages in terms of size and duration.
C
A sporophyte dominant life cycle has a larger and longer-lived gametophyte stage compared to the sporophyte stage.
D
A gametophyte dominant life cycle has a larger and longer-lived gametophyte stage compared to the sporophyte stage.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the basic concepts: In the life cycle of plants and some algae, there are two main stages - the gametophyte and the sporophyte. These stages alternate in a process known as alternation of generations.
Define the gametophyte stage: The gametophyte is the haploid stage of the life cycle, meaning it has a single set of chromosomes. It produces gametes (sperm and eggs) through mitosis.
Define the sporophyte stage: The sporophyte is the diploid stage, meaning it has two sets of chromosomes. It arises from the fusion of gametes and produces spores through meiosis.
Differentiate between gametophyte dominant and sporophyte dominant life cycles: In a gametophyte dominant life cycle, the gametophyte stage is larger and longer-lived than the sporophyte stage. In contrast, a sporophyte dominant life cycle features a larger and longer-lived sporophyte stage.
Apply this understanding to the problem: The correct statement is that a gametophyte dominant life cycle has a larger and longer-lived gametophyte stage compared to the sporophyte stage, which is typical of non-vascular plants like mosses.