Q1. What is the primary characteristic feature of gymnosperms?
a) They produce seeds enclosed within a fruit
b) They reproduce through spores
c) They have naked seeds
d) They lack vascular tissues
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Correct Answer: c) They have naked seeds
Explanation: Gymnosperms are characterized by seeds that are not enclosed within a fruit. Instead, they are exposed on the surface of cones or cones-like structures. This feature distinguishes them from angiosperms, which have seeds enclosed within fruits.
Q2. Which of the following is not a type of gymnosperm?
a) Conifers
b) Cycads
c) Ginkgo
d) Ferns
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Correct Answer: d) Ferns
Explanation: Ferns belong to the group of plants known as pteridophytes, which reproduce via spores. Gymnosperms, on the other hand, include conifers, cycads, ginkgo, and gnetophytes, among others, characterized by naked seeds
Q3. Which type of gymnosperm is known for its fan-shaped leaves and is often referred to as a “living fossil”?
a) Cycads
b) Conifers
c) Ginkgo
d) Gnetophytes
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Correct Answer: c) Ginkgo
Explanation: Ginkgo biloba is a unique gymnosperm known for its distinct fan-shaped leaves. It is often referred to as a “living fossil” because it is the only surviving species of its division and has remained largely unchanged for millions of years.
Q4. Which gymnosperm type typically has needle-like or scale-like leaves?
a) Ginkgo
b) Cycads
c) Conifers
d) Gnetophytes
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Correct Answer: c) Conifers
Explanation: Conifers, such as pines, spruces, and firs, are characterized by their needle-like or scale-like leaves. These leaves are adapted to conserve water and withstand harsh environmental conditions, making conifers well-suited for various habitats.
Q5. Which gymnosperm type is often associated with tropical and subtropical regions and has palm-like appearance?
a) Ginkgo
b) Cycads
c) Conifers
d) Gnetophytes
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Correct Answer: b) Cycads
Explanation: Cycads are gymnosperms that are typically found in tropical and subtropical regions. They are characterized by their palm-like appearance and often grow in sandy or rocky soils. Cycads are known for their distinct, stout trunk and large compound leaves.
Q6. The “Welwitschia mirabilis” belongs to which gymnosperm type?
a) Ginkgo
b) Cycads
c) Conifers
d) Gnetophytes
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Correct Answer: d) Gnetophytes
Explanation: Welwitschia mirabilis is a unique gymnosperm species belonging to the group Gnetophytes. It is found in the Namib Desert of Namibia and southwestern Angola. Welwitschia is known for its unusual appearance, with just two strap-like leaves and a short, woody stem.
Q7. Gymnosperms are often referred to as “naked seeds” plants. What does this mean?
a) Their seeds lack an outer covering or fruit
b) Their seeds are exposed to direct sunlight
c) Their seeds are dispersed without any protection
d) Their seeds are easily eaten by animals
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Correct Answer: a) Their seeds lack an outer covering or fruit
Explanation: Gymnosperms produce seeds that are not enclosed within a fruit. Instead, these seeds are exposed on the surface of cones or similar structures, hence the term “naked seeds.”
Q8. Which of the following gymnosperms is commonly used as a source of timber and paper pulp?
a) Ginkgo
b) Cycads
c) Conifers
d) Gnetophytes
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Correct Answer: c) Conifers
Explanation: Conifers, such as pines, spruces, and firs, are extensively used as a source of timber and paper pulp due to their straight-grained wood and high cellulose content. They are economically significant plants in forestry industries worldwide.
Q9. The female cones of gymnosperms are typically located:
a) On the branches
b) Underground
c) On separate trees from male cones
d) In the soil
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Correct Answer: a) On the branches
Explanation: Female cones of gymnosperms are usually located on the branches of the same tree that bears male cones. This spatial arrangement facilitates pollination and subsequent seed development.
Q10. Which of the following statements about gymnosperms is true?
a) They produce flowers for reproduction
b) They are all deciduous plants
c) They have vascular tissues for water and nutrient transport
d) They rely solely on wind for pollination
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Correct Answer: c) They have vascular tissues for water and nutrient transport
Explanation: Gymnosperms possess vascular tissues, including xylem and phloem, which enable the transport of water, nutrients, and sugars throughout the plant. This vascular system allows gymnosperms to grow tall and thrive in various terrestrial habitats.