(a) Seeds offer several advantages to angiosperms. Describe any three such advantages.

(b) Why is banana called a parthenocarpic fruit? Would you call banana a true fruit ? Give reason in support of your answer.

OR

(a) Describe ovarian events in the menstrual cycle of the female reproductive system in humans.

(b) Explain the role played by pituitary hormones during the events described above

a. Some advantages that angiosperms have due to seeds are:

i. Better adaptive strategies for dispersal to new habitats.

ii. Hard seed coat provides protection to young embryo.

iii. Sufficient food reserves (endosperm) for the seedling.

b. Formation of fruit in banana occurs without fertilization. Thus, it is called a parthenocarpic fruit.

Yes, banana is a true fruit as it develops from the ovary of the flower.

OR

a. The ovarian events that occur during the menstrual cycle of the female reproductive system in humans are:

i. During Follicular Phase (Day 1 to 13)

I. Primary follicles grow to become mature Graafian follicles.

ii. Ovulatory phase (Day 14)

I. one ovum is released from one ovary. This process is called ovulation.

iii. Luteal phase (Day 15 to 28 or 29)

I. Graafian follicle transforms to form corpus luteum.

b. Role played by pituitary hormones during the events:

i. The secretion of gonadotropins i.e., Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) gradually increase during follicular phase. They stimulate follicular development.

ii. Rapid secretion of LH during mid cycle (LH surge) results in ovulation and subsequent development of Corpus Luteum.