PLANT REPRODUCTION REVISION QUESTIONS!

2012 P2
3. (a) Figure 4 is an incomplete diagrammatic representation of the stages in the development of an
embryo sac.

(i)

(ii)

(iii)

Complete Figure 4 to show the missing stages in the boxes labelled A and B. [2]
[in Box A draw four cells with one much larger, 3 somewhat squashed at top end; each
with nucleus. In Box B draw embryo sac with 3 nuclei surrounded by cell membranes at
each end antipodals and synergids + ovum; two central nuclei remain as is
Use an arrow labelled C to indicate on Figure 4 where meiosis occurs during the
development of the embryo sac. [1]
This would go at the first arrow
Use an arrow labelled D to indicate the location of the female gamete on Figure 4. [1]
This would point to the central cell at the bottom

2013 U1 P1 #3
(c) Figure 4 is a diagram of a section through a carpel of an angiosperm plant showing the process of
double fertilisation.

Comment on the fate of the structure labelled X and the structure labelled Y, which includes the ovule
walls and the embryo sac and its contents. [3]
X ovary wall develops into fruit
Y ovule wall/integuments become testa
Ovule becomes the seed; fertilised egg becomes the embryo; polar nuclei and male nucleus become
the endosperm
2006 U1 P2

Bananas and sweet potatoes reproduce by asexual methods. Tomatoes and peppers reproduce
sexually. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each type of reproduction in these plants. [4]
Sex: Adv include different genotypes/increased genetic variation; production of seeds that may be
well dispersed; new cultivars; improved characteristics
Disadv include have to ensure that gametes meet (pollinating agents etc); may lose favourable
genotype/phenotype
Asex: Adv include ease of propagation; retain favourable genotype/phenotype; large numbers
produced; rapid; only one parent
Disadv incl genetically identical; susceptible to changes in environment; perpetuating unfavourable
characteristics; overcrowding
2011 U1 P2
Describe two reproductive strategies used by plants to promote cross-fertilisation. [4]
Refer to dioecious species; protandry/protogyny; self-incompatibility; structural features of flowers (e.g.
heterostyly)
Explain why cross-pollination may be more beneficial to a species than self-pollination. [3]
Refer to increased genetic variation; increased heterozygosity; hybrid vigour; ability to adapt to
changing conditions; reduced expression of recessive alleles that may be harmful