Final answer:
The assertion that ribosomal RNA is synthesized in the nucleus is true, but the reason given is false because RNA polymerase I, not RNA polymerase III, is responsible for rRNA synthesis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer to the question provided is (c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false. Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) is synthesized in the nucleus of the cell, which is a true statement. rRNA is indeed transcribed in the nucleolus, a region within the nucleus. This process is carried out by RNA polymerase I and involves the 18S, 5.8S, and 28S rRNA. Synthesis and assembly of ribosomal subunits take place concurrently, with rRNAs being essential structural components of ribosomes and not translated into proteins.
However, the reason provided is incorrect because it is not RNA polymerase III that synthesizes rRNA; it actually transcribes a variety of other small RNAs, including the 5S rRNA. RNA polymerase III is involved in the transcription of tRNA and other small RNAs, but not the majority of rRNA, which is transcribed by RNA polymerase I.