Question

When the microspore of an angiosperm divides, it gives rise directly to:

a. two generative cells.
b. two tube cells.
c. two sperm cells.
d. a generative cell and a tube cell.
e. a sperm cell, a generative cell, and a tube cell.

Answer 1

The microspore of an angiosperm divides to give rise to a generative cell and a tube cell. The generative cell eventually divides to form two sperm cells during the process of fertilization.

Step-by-step explanation:

When the microspore of an angiosperm divides, it gives rise directly to d. a generative cell and a tube cell.

In the life cycle of an angiosperm, microspore mother cells within the microsporangium divide by meiosis to generate microspores, which then undergo mitosis to form pollen grains. A mature pollen grain has two cells: a generative cell and a larger pollen tube cell. When the pollen grain germinates, the tube cell forms the pollen tube, while the generative cell travels through this tube to reach the ovary. During its journey, the generative cell divides to form two male gametes or sperm cells. Thus, the correct answer reflects the direct products of microspore division before further development occurs during fertilization.