Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Spores and gametes are different in that __________.
A
gametes never resemble spores morphologically
B
gametes are always haploid whereas spores are diploid
C
only the formation of gametes contributes to genetic variation
D
gametes are derived directly from sporophytes to form gametophytes
E
gametes can fuse to form a zygote, but spores can develop into independent organisms without first forming a zygote
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the definitions: Spores are reproductive cells that can develop into a new organism without the need for fertilization, while gametes are reproductive cells that must fuse with another gamete to form a zygote.
Consider the life cycle of plants: In the alternation of generations, sporophytes produce spores through meiosis, and these spores can develop into gametophytes. Gametophytes produce gametes through mitosis.
Analyze the morphological differences: While gametes are typically specialized for fusion (e.g., sperm and egg), spores are designed to survive harsh conditions and grow into a new organism.
Evaluate genetic variation: Both spores and gametes contribute to genetic variation, but in different ways. Spores result from meiosis, introducing genetic diversity, while gametes combine genetic material from two parents.
Identify the key distinction: The main difference is that gametes must fuse to form a zygote, initiating the development of a new organism, whereas spores can independently develop into a new organism without forming a zygote.