Chapter 32: Q. 18 (page 889)
Describe the four main parts, or whorls, of a flower.
Short Answer
Expert verified
In general, a flower has four whorl components, namely the calyx, corolla, gynoecium and androecium.
Step by step solution
01
Introduction
Flower is the reproductive organ of an angiosperm. Angiosperms reproduce sexually with the help of flowers. Flowers also help in attracting pollinators for pollination by producing nectar as a reward for the pollinators. A flower in general has four whorl components: calyx, corolla, gynoecium and androecium.
02
Explanation
The calyx and corolla are the non-reproductive parts of the flower. They are called the accessory parts of the flower, that performs different functions.
- The flower's outer whorl is called the calyx. It is made up of sepals, which are tiny leaves located at the base of flowers. Calyx provides protection to the flower while it is in bud stage and they perform photosynthesis as well.
- The second whorl of the flower is called corolla, that is made up of petals. Petals are vividly coloured and scented to attract pollinators.
03
Explanation
The gynoecium(carpel) and androecium(stamen) are reproductive parts of the flowers that is involved in the reproduction process.
- The carpel is the flower's fourth whorl, and it is found in the centre. The carpels house the pistil, the female reproductive component of the flower. It includes the ovary, style, and stigma. The egg, or ovule, is found in the ovary. After fertilisation the ovary becomes the fruit and the ovules become the seed, which are guarded and enclosed by the fruit. The stigma is supported at the tip of the ovary by a vertical structure called the style. Pollen that has been dispersed, sticks to the stigma and travels down the style to the ovary.
- The male reproductive part of the flower is the stamen, and makes up the third whorl of the flower. It consists of an anther and a slender stalk supporting the anther, called filament. Pollen grains, which contain the male gametes are produced and stored in the anther.
Most popular questions from this chapter
________ is a useful method of asexual reproduction for propagating hard-to-root plants.
a. grafting
b. layering
c. cuttings
d. budding
Plant species that complete their lifecycle in one season are known as ________.
a. biennials
b. perennials
c. annuals
d. polycarpic
Discuss some ways in which fruit seeds are dispersed.
Figure 32.8 An embryo sac is missing the synergids. What specific impact would you expect this to have on fertilization?
a. The pollen tube will be unable to form.
b. The pollen tube will form but will not be guided toward the egg.
c. Fertilization will not occur because the synergid is the egg.
d. Fertilization will occur but the embryo will not be able to grow.
The fertilized ovule gives rise to the ________.
a. fruit
b. seed
c. endosperm
d. embryo
Recommended explanations on Biology Textbooks
Ecological Levels
Read ExplanationResponding to Change
Read ExplanationBiological Processes
Read ExplanationBiological Molecules
Read ExplanationControl of Gene Expression
Read ExplanationCellular Energetics
Read ExplanationWhat do you think about this solution?
We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept