Test Your Knowledge:

1. Amoeba usually reproduces which type of asexual reproduction?

Answer: Binary Fission

2. Name a fungus which reproduces by spore formation.

Answer: Rhizopus
3. Name an animal which reproduces by regeneration.

Answer: Planaria

Test Your Knowledge

1. Which part of a potato plant is capable of vegetative propagation?

Answer: Stem
2. Which type of animals is the main agent of pollination?

Answer: Inects
3. Which part of the flower turns into fruit?

Answer: Ovary

Test Your Knowledge:

1. Which hormone is also known as the ‘male hormone’?

Answer: Testosterone
2. What is the name of the structure which provides nutrition to the developing foetus?

Answer: Placenta

Asexual reproduction takes place through budding in

a. Amoeba
b. Yeast
c. Plasmodium
d. Leishamania

Answer: (b) Yeast

1. Which of the following is not a part of the female reproductive system in human beings?
 a. Ovary
b. Uterus
c. Vas deferens
d. Fallopian tube

Answer: (c) Vas deferens

2. The anther contains
a. Sepals
b. Ovule
c. Carpel
d. Pollen grains

Answer: (d) Pollen grains

Question 4: What are the advantages of sexual reproduction over asexual reproduction?

Answer: Sexual reproduction facilitates variations at a faster pace. Thus, evolution of new and
complex species could have been possible because of sexual reproduction.

Question 5: What are the functions performed by the testis in human beings?

Answer: Functions of Testis:

a. Production of sperms.
b. Production of the hormone testosterone.

Question 6: Why does menstruation occur?

Answer: In each ovulation cycle, an egg is released from the ovary which is transferred to the
fallopian tube. Additionally, the uterus prepares itself for a possible pregnancy. The lining of
uterus thickens. When no conception happens, the lining of the uterus is shed in fragments;
along with the unfertilized egg. These things are released out through the vagina in the form of
bleeding; called menstruation.

Question 7: Draw a labelled diagram of the longitudinal section of a flower.

Answer:
Question 8: What are the different methods of contraception?

Answer: There are various methods of contraception. The physical barrier methods prevent the
entry of sperm into the uterus. The hormonal pills prevent transfer of egg to the uterus. Copper-
T is a method which prevents entry of sperms in the fallopian tube and thus prevents
fertilization. Surgical methods are permanent methods to stop the chances of pregnancy.

Question 9: How are the modes for reproduction different in unicellular and multicellular
organisms?

Answer: Unicellular organisms always reproduce by asexual methods; like binary fission,
budding, multiple fission, etc. Multicellular organisms, on the other hand, use both asexual and
sexual methods for reproduction. While simple organisms usually follow the asexual methods of
reproduction; most of the multicellular organisms follow sexual methods of reproduction.

Question 10: How does reproduction help in providing stability to populations of species?

Answer: Every species has to constantly struggle for its survival. Natural predators and
vagaries of nature keep on removing a large section of the population of a particular species.
Moreover, the natural cycle of life and death also removes a section of the population.
Reproduction is a way to replenish the lost section of population. Thus, it can be said that
reproduction is linked to the stability of population of a species.

Question 11: What could be the reasons for adopting contraceptive methods?

Answer: There are two main reasons for adopting contraceptive methods. One of them is
limiting the number of children a couple wants to have. Another goal is to maintain adequate
gap between two consecutive children. Some contraceptive methods also help in preventing
STDs.

Text Questions
Page No: 128

1. What is the importance of DNA copying in reproduction?

Answer

DNA is the genetic material present in the cells of all organisms. The genetic information from
generation to generation is carried by DNA .It is therefore possible for the organism to produce
organism of its own type due to DNA copying [Link] the inheritance of traits of the parent,DNA
copying is a [Link] copying also brings about variation ,which forms the basis for the origin
of new species.

2. Why is variation beneficial to the species but not necessarily for the individual?

Answer

Variations are beneficial to the species than individual because sometimes for a species, the
environmental conditions change so drastically that their survival becomes difficult. For
example, if the temperature of water increases suddenly, then most of the bacteria living in that
water would die. Only few variants that are resistant to heat would be able to survive. However,
if these variants were not there, then the entire species of bacteria would have been destroyed.
Thus, these variants help in the survival of the species. However, all variations are not
necessarily beneficial for the individual organisms.

Page No: 133

1. How does binary fission differ from multiple fission?

Answer

In binary fission a single cell divides into two equal [Link] and Bacteria divide by
binary fission.
In multiple fission, a single cell divides into many daughter cells simultaneously. Plasmodium
divide by multiple fission.

2. How will an organism be benefited if it reproduces through spores?

Answer

Advantages of spore formation:

→ Large numbers of spores are produced in one sporangium.
→ Spores are distributed easily by air to far-off places to avoid competition at one place.
→ Spores are covered by thick walls to prevent dehydration under unfavourable conditions.

3. Can you think of reasons why more complex organisms cannot give rise to new individuals
through regeneration?

Answer

Higher complex organisms cannot give rise to new individuals through regeneration
because complex organisms have organ-system level of organization. All the organ systems of
their body work together as an interconnected unit. They can regenerate their lost body parts
such as skin, muscles, blood, etc. However, they cannot give rise to new individuals through
regeneration.

4. Why is vegetative propagation practised for growing some types of plants?

Answer

Vegetative propagation is practiced for growing some types of plants because of following
advantages:
→ It is used to grow a plant in which viable seeds are not formed or very few seeds are
produced such as Orange, Banana, Pineapple.
→ It helps to introduce plants in new areas where the seed germination fails to produce mature
plant due to change in environmental factors and the soil.→ It is more rapid, easier and cheaper
method.
→ By this method a good quality of a race or variety can be preserved.

5. Why is DNA copying an essential part of the process of reproduction?

Answer

DNA copying is an essential part of reproduction as it passes genetic information from parents
to offspring. It determines the body design of an individual. The reproducing cells produce a
copy of their DNA through some chemical reactions and result in two copies of DNA. The
copying of DNA always takes place along with the creation of additional cellular structure. This
process is then followed by division of a cell to form two cells.

Page No: 140

1. How is the process of pollination different from fertilization?

Answer

Pollination is the process of transfer of pollens from anther to stigma. It occurs with the help of
certain pollinators such as air, water, birds, or some insects.
Fertilization, is the fusion of the male and female gametes. It occurs inside the ovule and leads
to the formation of zygote.

2. What is the role of the seminal vesicles and the prostate gland?

Answer

The secretions from seminal vesicles and prostate glands lubricate the sperms and provide a
fluid medium for easy transport of sperms. Their secretion also provides nutrient in the form of
fructose, calcium, and some enzymes.

3. What are the changes seen in girls at the time of puberty?

Answer
The changes seen in girls at the time of puberty are:
→ Increase in breast size and darkening of skin of the nipples present at the tips of the breasts.
→ Appearance of hair in the genital area.
→ Appearance of hair in other areas of skin like underarms, face, hands, and legs.
→ Increase in the size of uterus and ovary.
→ Beginning of menstrual cycle.
→ More secretion of oil from the skin, which results in the appearance of pimples.

4. How does the embryo get nourishment inside the mother's body?

Answer

After fertilization the lining of uterus thickens and is richly supplied with blood to nourish the
growing embryo. The embryo gets nutrition from the mother’s blood with he help of a special
tissue called placenta. It is embedded in the uterine wall. Placenta contains Villi on the embryo’s
side of the tissue and blood spaces on mother’s side surrounding the villi. This provides a large
surface from mother to the embryo and waste products from embryo to mother.

5. If a woman is using a copper-T, will it help in protecting her from sexually transmitted
diseases?

Answer

No, because copper-T will not prevent contact body fluids. Thus it will not protect her from
sexually transmitted diseases.

Page No: 141

Excercise

1. Asexual reproduction takes place through budding in

(a) amoeba.
(b) yeast.
(c) plasmodium.
(d) leishmania.
► (b) yeast.

2. Which of the following is not a part of the female reproductive system in human beings?
(a) Ovary
(b) Uterus
(c) Vas deferens
(d) Fallopian tube
► (c) Vas deferens

3. The anther contains

(a) sepals.
(b) ovules.
(c) carpel.
(d) pollen grains.
► (d) pollen grains.

4. What are the advantages of sexual reproduction over asexual reproduction?

Answer

Advantages of sexual reproduction:

→ In sexual reproduction, more variations are produced. Thus, it ensures survival of species in
a population.
→ The new formed individual has characteristics of both the parents.
→ Variations are more viable in sexual mode than in asexual one. This is because in asexual
reproduction, DNA has to function inside the inherited cellular apparatus.

5. What are the functions performed by the testis in human beings?

Answer

Functions of testes:
→ Produce sperms, which contain haploid set of chromosomes of father.
→ Produce a hormone called testosterone, which brings about secondary sexual characters in
boys.

6. Why does menstruation occur?

Answer

Menstruation is a process in which blood and mucous flows out every month through the
vagina. This process occurs every month because one egg is released from the ovary every
month and at the same time, the uterus (womb) prepares itself to receive the fertilized egg.
Thus, the inner lining of the uterus gets thickened and is supplied with blood to nourish the
embryo. If the egg does not get fertilised, then the lining of the uterus breaks down slowly and
gets released in the form of blood and mucous from the vagina.

7. Draw a labelled diagram of the longitudinal section of a flower.

Answer
8. What are the different methods of contraception?

Answer

The contraceptive methods can be broadly divided into the following types:
→ Natural method: It involves avoiding the chances of meeting of sperms and ovum. In this
method, the sexual act is avoided from day 10th to 17th of the menstrual cycle because during
this period, ovulation is expected and therefore, the chances of fertilization are very high.
→ Barrier method: In this method, the fertilization of ovum and sperm is prevented with the help
of barriers. Barriers are available for both males and females. Condoms are barriers made of
thin rubber that are used to cover penis in males and vagina in females.
→ Oral contraceptives: In this method, tablets or drugs are taken orally. These contain small
doses of hormones that prevent the release of eggs and thus fertilization cannot occur.
→ Implants and surgical methods: Contraceptive devices such as the loop or Copper-T are
placed in uterus to prevent pregnancy. Some surgical methods can also be used to block the
gamete transfer. It includes the blocking of vas deferens to prevent the transfer of sperms
known as vasectomy. Similarly, fallopian tubes of the female can be blocked so that the egg will
not reach the uterus known as tubectomy.

9. How are the modes for reproduction different in unicellular and multicellular organisms?

Answer

In unicellular organisms, reproduction occurs by the division of the entire cell. The modes of
reproduction in unicellular organisms can be fission, budding, etc. whereas in multicellular
organisms, specialised reproductive organs are present. Therefore, they can reproduce by
complex reproductive methods such as vegetative propagation, spore formation, etc. In more
complex multicellular organisms such as human beings and plants, the mode of reproduction is
sexual reproduction.

10. How does reproduction help in providing stability to populations of species?

Answer

Reproduction is the process of producing new individuals of the same species by existing
organisms of a species, so, it helps in providing stability to population of species by giving birth
to new individuals as the rate of birth must be at par with the rate of death to provide stability to
population of a species.

11. What could be the reasons for adopting contraceptive methods?

Answer

Contraceptive methods are mainly adopted because of the following reasons:

→ To prevent unwanted pregnancies.
→ To control population rise or birth rate.
→ To prevent the transfer of sexually transmitted diseases.
Question 1: What is the importance of DNA copying in reproduction?

Answer: DNA copying is important for reproduction. Additional copies of DNA are made during
replication; which is necessary for the new cells formed after cell division. Moreover, some
minor alterations during DNA replication are responsible for bringing variations in the long run.

 ≡ CHAPTERS

 Chemistry
 Physics
 LifeProcess

 ControlCoordination

 Reproduction

 Heredity:Evolution

 Our Environment

 NaturalResources
 Question 2: Why is variation beneficial to the species but not necessarily for the individual?

Answer: A variation may be beneficial to the species but not necessarily for the individual. This
can be understood with the following hypothetical example. Let us recall how giraffe may have
evolved from their ancestors who had shorter necks. A giraffe had had to crane its neck longer
to reach the uppermost branches. For most of the individual giraffe, it must have been a painful
experience. But in the long run, those who could succeed in reaching the uppermost branches
survived and others perished. So, developing a longer neck had no foreseeable short term
gains but it was beneficial for the species.

Question 3: How does binary fission differ from multiple fission?

Answer:

Binary Fission Multiple Fission

Two daughter cells are formed. Multiple daughter cells are formed.

Happens during favorable

Happens during unfavorable conditions.
conditions.

It is a routine process. It is utilised to tide over unfavorable conditions.

Question 4: How will an organism be benefited if it reproduces through spores?

Answer: Reproduction through spores gives several advantages to an organism. Some of them
are as follows:

a. Spores can remain dormant till favourable conditions become available.

b. Spores help an organism to tide over the bad phase.
c. Spores can be spread through water, air or animals and thus is good for the spread of an
organism to more places.

Question 5: Can you think of reasons why more complex organisms cannot give rise to new
individuals through regeneration?

Answer: Regeneration happens through mitosis and a particular type of tissue can give rise to
its own kind only. In complex organisms, different tissues and organs have altogether different
structures. Regenerating a different kind of tissue from another kind is not possible. Hence,
complex organisms are unable to give rise to new individuals through regeneration.

Question 6: Why is vegetative propagation practised for growing some types of plants?
Answer: Vegetative propagation has some inherent advantages. It takes less time to grow a
plant through vegetative propagation. Different traits of a species can be developed on the
same plant through this process. Many plants grown through vegetative propagation take less
time to give fruits and other beneficial plant produce. These are the reason, vegetative
propagation is practiced for growing some types of plants.

Question 7: Why is DNA copying an essential part of the process of reproduction?

Answer: DNAs are the carriers of genetic information. For an organism to produce its own kind,
it becomes necessary that the offspring get similar DNAs as in parents. DNA replication is the
way through which a cell makes additional copies of DNA so that they can be transferred to the
offspring. This explains how DNA copying is an essential part of the process of replication.

Question 8: How is the process of pollination different from fertilisation?

Answer: Transfer of pollen grains from anther to stigma is called pollination. On the other hand,
fusion of male and female gametes is called fertilization. Pollination is a physical process in
which movement of pollen grains are attained by certain physical factors. Fertilization is a
biological process. Ovary is the site of fertilization and embryo is the product of fertilization.

Question 9: What is the role of the seminal vesicles and the prostate gland?

Answer: Prostate gland: Makes the medium of semen alkaline.

Seminal vesicle: Adds fluid content to the semen.

Question 10: What are the changes seen in girls at the time of puberty?

Answer: At the time of puberty, secondary sexual characters develop and sexual maturity takes
place. This is manifested by many changes in both girls and boys. Some of the changes seen in
girls at the time of puberty are as follows:

 Voice becomes thin

 Breasts enlarge
 Hips become rounded
 Hairs grow under the armpit and in pubic area

Reproduction

Exemplar Problems MCQ Solution

Part 1

In the list of organisms given below, those that reproduce by the asexual method are
 i. Banana
ii. Dog
iii. Yeast
iv. Amoeba

a. (ii) and (iv)

b. (i), (iii) and (iv)
c. (i) and (iv)
d. (ii), (iii) and (iv)

Answer:(b) (i), (iii) and (iv)

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1. In a flower, the parts that produce male and female gametes (germ cells) are
a. Stamen and anther
b. Filament and stigma
c. Anther and ovary
d. Stamen and style

Answer: (c) Anther and Ovary

2. Which of the following is the correct sequence of events of sexual reproduction in a
flower?
a. Pollination, fertilisation, seedling, embryo
b. Seedling, embryo, fertilisation, pollination
c. Pollination, fertilisation, embryo, seedling
d. Embryo, seedling, pollination, fertilization

Answer: (c) Pollination, fertilization, embryo, seedling

3. Offspring formed by asexual method of reproduction have greater similarity among

themselves because

i. Asexual reproduction involves only one parent

ii. Asexual reproduction does not involve gametes
iii. Asexual reproduction occurs before sexual reproduction
iv. Asexual reproduction occurs after sexual reproduction

e. (i) and (ii)

f. (i) and (iii)
g. (ii) and (iv)
h. (iii) and (iv)

Answer: (a) (i) and (ii)

4. Characters transmitted from parents to offspring are present in
a. Cytoplasm
b. Ribosome
c. Golgi bodies
d. Genes

Answer: (d) Genes

5. Characters that are transmitted from parents to offspring during reproduction show
a. Only similarities with parents
b. Only variations with parents
c. Both similarities and variations with parents
 d. Neither similarities nor variations

Answer: (c) Both similarities and variations with parents

1. A feature of reproduction that is common to Amoeba, Spirogyra and Yeast is that

a. They reproduce asexually
b. They are all unicellular
c. They reproduce only sexually
d. They are all multicellular

Answer: (a) They reproduce asexually

2. In Spirogyra, asexual reproduction takes place by
a. Breaking up of filaments into smaller bits
b. Division of a cell into two cells
c. Division of a cell into many cells
d. Formation of young cells from older cells

Answer: (a) Breaking up of filaments into smaller bits

3. The ability of a cell to divide into several cells during reproduction in Plasmodium is
called
a. Budding
b. Reduction division
c. Binary fission
d. Multiple fission

Answer: (d) Multiple Fission

Exemplar Problems MCQ Solution

Part 2

The correct sequence of reproductive stages seen in flowering plants is

a. Gametes, zygote, embryo, seedling

b. Zygote, gametes, embryo, seedling
c. Seedling, embryo, zygote, gametes
d. Gametes, embryo, zygote, seedling

Answer: (a) Gametes, zygote, embryo, seedling

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1. The number of chromosomes in parents and offsprings of a particular species remains

constant due to
a. Doubling of chromosomes after zygote formation
b. Halving of chromosomes during gamete formation
c. Doubling of chromosomes after gamete formation
d. Halving of chromosomes after gamete formation

Answer: (b) Halving of chromosomes during gamete formation

2. In Rhizopus, tubular thread-like structures bearing sporangia at their tips are called
a. Filaments
 b. Hyphae
c. Rhizoids
d. Roots

Answer: (b) Hyphae

3. Vegetative propagation refers to formation of new plants from

a. Stem, roots and flowers
b. Stem, roots and leaves
c. Stem, flowers and fruits
d. Stem, leaves and flowers

Answer: (b) Stem, roots and leaves

4. Factors responsible for the rapid spread of bread mould on slices of bread are

i. Large number of spores

ii. Availability of moisture and nutrients in bread
iii. Presence of tubular branched hyphae
iv. Formation of round shaped sporangia

e. (i) and (iii)

f. (ii) and (iv)
g. (i) and (ii)
h. (iii) and (iv)

Answer: (c) (i) and (ii)

5. Length of pollen tube depends on the distance between
a. Pollen grain and upper surface of stigma
b. Pollen grain on upper surface of stigma and ovule
c. Pollen grain in anther and upper surface of stigma
d. Upper surface of stigma and lower part of style

Answer: (c) Pollen grain in anther and upper surface of stigma

1. Which of the following statements are true for flowers?

i. Flowers are always bisexual
ii. They are the sexual reproductive organs
iii. They are produced in all groups of plants
iv. After fertilisation they give rise to fruits

e. (i) and (iv)

f. (ii) and (iii)
g. (i) and (iii)
 h. (ii) and (iv)

Answer: (b) (ii) and (iv)

2. Which among the following statements are true for unisexual flowers?

i. They possess both stamen and pistil

ii. They possess either stamen or pistil
iii. They exhibit cross pollination
iv. Unisexual flowers possessing only stamens cannot produce fruits

e. (i) and (iv)

f. (ii), (iii) and (iv)
g. (iii) and (iv)
h. (i), (iii) and (iv)

Answer: (b) (ii), (iii) and (iv)

3. Which among the following statements are true for sexual reproduction in flowering
plants?

i. It requires two types of gametes

ii. Fertilisation is a compulsory event
iii. It always results in formation of zygote
iv. Offspring formed are clones

e. (i) and (iv)

f. (i), (ii) and (iv)
g. (i), (ii) and (iii)
h. (ii), (iii) and (iv)

Answer:(c) (i), (ii) and (iii)

Exemplar Problems MCQ Solution

Part 3

In the given figure, the parts A, B and C are sequentially

a. Cotyledon, plumule and radicle

b. Plumule, radicle and cotyledon
c. Plumule, cotyledon and radicle
d. Radicle, cotyledon and plumule

Answer: (d) Radicle, cotyledon and plumule

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 Physics
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1. Offspring formed as a result of sexual reproduction exhibit more variations because

a. Sexual reproduction is a lengthy process
b. Genetic material comes from two parents of the same species
c. Genetic material comes from two parents of different species
 d. Genetic material comes from many parents

Answer: (b) Genetic material comes from two parents of the same species
2. Reproduction is essential for living organisms in order to
a. Keep the individual organism alive
b. Fulfill their energy requirement
c. Maintain growth
d. Continue the species generation after generation

Answer: (d) Continue the species generation after generation

3. During adolescence, several changes occur in the human body. Mark one change
associated with sexual maturation in boys
a. Loss of milk teeth
b. Increase in height
c. Cracking of voice
d. Weight gain

Answer: (c) Cracking of voice

4. In human females, an event that reflects onset of reproductive phase is
a. Growth of body
b. Changes in hair pattern
c. Change in voice
d. Menstruation

Answer: (d) Menstruation

1. In human males, the testes lie in the scrotum, because it helps in the
a. Process of mating
b. Formation of sperm
c. Easy transfer of gametes
d. All the above

Answer: (b) Formation of sperm

2. Which among the following is not the function of testes at puberty?

i. Formation of germ cells

ii. Secretion of testosterone
iii. Development of placenta
iv. Secretion of estrogen

e. (i) and (ii)

f. (ii) and (iii)
g. (iii) and (iv)
 h. (i) and (iv)

Answer: (c) (iii) and (iv)

3. The correct sequence of organs in the male reproductive system for transport of sperms
is
a. Testis → vas deferens → urethra
b. Testis → ureter → urethra
c. Testis → urethra → ureter
d. Testis → vas deferens → ureter

Answer: (a) Testis → vas deferens → urethra

4. Which among the following diseases is not sexually transmitted?
a. Syphillis
b. Hepatitis
c. HIV – AIDS
d. Gonorrhoea

Answer: (b) Hepatitis

Reproduction

Exemplar Problems Short Answer

Part 1

28. In a bisexual flower inspite of the young stamens being removed artificially, the flower
produces fruit. Provide a suitable explanation for the above situation.

Answer: For a flower to produce fruits, it is necessary that pollination and fertilization take
place. In the absence of stamens; as given here; cross pollination must have taken place to
facilitate fertilization. The cross fertilization could be assisted by human or by some other agent
of fertilization. This would have led to production of fruit.

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 Physics
 LifeProcess
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29. Can you consider cell division as a type of reproduction in unicellular organism? Give one
reason.

Answer: Unicellular organisms reproduce asexually and often do that by binary fission. Binary
fission is similar to mitosis; in which two daughter cells are produced after cell division. Hence,
cell division can be considered as a type of reproduction in unicellular organisms.

30. What is a clone? Why do offsprings formed by asexual reproduction exhibit remarkable
similarity?

Answer: An exact copy of something is called a clone. During sexual reproduction, all the traits
in an offspring are similar to the traits in the parent. Due to this, offspring formed after sexual
reproduction exhibit remarkable similarity.

31. Explain how, offspring and parents of organisms reproducing sexually have the same
number of chromosomes?

Answer: Gamete formation is the first step in sexual reproduction. Number of chromosomes is
halved during gamete formation. As a result, the number of chromosomes in gamete is half the
number of chromosomes in somatic cells. When male and female gametes fuse during
fertilization, the number of chromosomes becomes equal to that in somatic cells. This explains
how, offspring and parents of organisms reproducing sexually have the same number of
chromosomes.

32. Colonies of yeast fail to multiply in water, but multiply in sugar solution. Give one reason for
this.

Answer: Answer: When the colony of yeast is in water, it does not get nutrition; because water
does not have nutrients. Sugar, on the other hand, provides nutrition. Once the yeast gets
nutrition, it grows and begins producing buds. That is why, colonies of yeast fail to multiply in
water, but multiply in sugar solution.

33. Why does bread mould grow profusely on a moist slice of bread rather than on a dry slice of
bread?

Answer: Water is necessary for all metabolic activities. On the moist bread the spores of bread
mold get the much needed water; which is not available on the dry bread. Hence, bread mould
grows profusely on a moist slice of bread rather than on a dry slice of bread.

34. Give two reasons for the appearance of variations among the progeny formed by sexual
reproduction.

Answer: The first and foremost reason for the appearance of variations among the progeny
formed by sexual reproduction is, gene pool of the progeny is contributed by two different
individuals. The second reason is that variations also happen during DNA replication before cell
division.

35. Would a Planaria cut vertically into two halves regenerate into two individuals? Complete
Figure ‘D’ and ‘E’ by indicating the regenerated regions.

Answer:
36. From the internet, gather information about the chromosome numbers of five animals and
five plants. Correlate the number with the size of organism and answer the following questions.

(a) Do larger organisms have more number of chromosomes/cells?

(b) Can organism with fewer chromosomes reproduce more easily than organisms with more
number of chromosomes?

(c) More the number of chromosomes/cells greater is the DNA content. Justify.

Answer: Number of chromosomes in somatic cells of some organisms:

Organism No. of Chromosomes

Human 46

Hare 48

Elephant 48

Cow 60

Dog 78

Kingfisher 132
(Ref:
[Link]
Accessed on 8th April 2013.)

Answer: (a) Number of chromosomes and size of an organism has no relationship. A smaller
organism may have more chromosomes than a larger organism. The above table also shows
number of chromosomes in kingfisher is significantly greater than that in dog; although
kingfisher is much smaller in size.

Answer: (b) Ability to reproduce depends on a variety of factors; like availability of nutrients,
water, conducive environment and suitable mate. Number of chromosomes has no bearing on
the ease by which an organism reproduces.

Answer: (c) Chromosomes are composed of DNA. More chromosomes means, there will be
more DNA. Hence, this statement is justified.

37. In tobacco plant, the male gametes have twenty four chromosomes. What is the number of
chromosomes in the female gamete? What is the number of chromosomes in the zygote?

Answer: Answer: The number of chromosomes in the female gamete would be same as that in
the male gamete, i.e. 24. The number of chromosomes in the zygote would be double the
number in a gamete and hence it would be 48.

Reproduction

Exemplar Problems Short Answer

Part 2

38. Why cannot fertilisation take place in flowers if pollination does not occur?

Answer: Answer: For fertilization to occur, it is necessary that the male gamete reaches the
female gamete. This can only happen when the pollen grains are transferred to the stigma
through any means of pollination. So, fertilization cannot take place in flowers if pollination does
not occur.

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39. Is the chromosome number of zygote, embryonal cells and adult of a particular organism
always constant? How is the constancy maintained in these three stages?

Answer: Answer: The answer to the first part of this question is a definite yes. Meiosis is the
cell division which happens during gametogenesis, i.e. during gamete formation. This results in
number of chromosomes getting halved in gametes. When fertilization happens, the number of
chromosomes becomes equal to that in somatic cells. After that, mitosis takes place during rest
of the stages of life. And thus, the constancy of chromosomal number is maintained in all the
three stages as mentioned in this question.

40. Where is the zygote located in the flower after fertilization?

Answer: After fertilization, zygote is located in the ovary.

41. Reproduction is linked to stability of population of a species. Justify the statement.

Answer: Answer: Every species has to constantly struggle for its survival. Natural predators
and vagaries of nature keep on removing a large section of the population of a particular
species. Moreover, the natural cycle of life and death also removes a section of the population.
Reproduction is a way to replenish the lost section of population. Thus, it can be said that
reproduction is linked to the stability of population of a species.

42. How are general growth and sexual maturation different from each other?
 Answer: Answer: General growth and sexual maturation are different from each other in many
senses. General growth is all about attaining physical maturity in which the organism undergoes
through various stages to become an adult. Once the physical growth is complete, it lays the
foundation for sexual maturity. Sexual maturity is related to preparing the body for physical and
psychological responsibilities related to reproduction.

43. Trace the path of sperm during ejaculation and mention the gland and their functions
associated with the male reproductive system.

Answer: The path of sperm during ejaculation is as follows:

Vas deferens → Seminal Vesicle → Urethra

Glands associated with the male reproductive system and their functions are as follows:

a. Testis: Secretes the hormone testosterone.

b. Prostate gland: Makes the medium of semen alkaline
c. Seminal vesicle: Adds fluid content to the semen
d. Cowper’s gland: The secretion of this gland lubricates the urethra before ejaculation and
neutralizes the acidic traces of urine in the urethra

44. What changes are observed in the uterus if fertilisation does not occur?

Answer: The uterus prepares during every ovulation cycle in anticipation of a possible
pregnancy. The lining of the uterus thickens so that it can give support to the developing
embryo. When fertilization does not occur, this lining disintegrates because it is no longer
required. The fragments of the lining are shed along with blood and the discarded egg; through
the vagina. The discharge of discarded tissues is called menstrual flow and the process is called
menstruation.

What changes are observed in the uterus subsequent to implantation of young embryo?

Answer: Once the zygote is implanted in the uterine wall, several changes take place in the
uterus. The uterine lining thickens so that it can give support to the growing embryo. It is richly
supplied with blood so that it can provide nourishment to the embryo.

46. What are the benefits of using mechanical barriers during sexual act?

Answer: Mechanical barriers during sexual act provide two benefits. The first benefit is
avoidance of unwanted pregnancy and the second benefit is prevention of sexually transmitted
diseases.
 47. In the given figure, label the parts and mention their functions

a. Production of egg
b. Site of fertilization
c. Site of implantation
d. Entry of the sperms

Answer:

48. What would be the ratio of chromosome number between an egg and its zygote? How is the
sperm genetically different from the egg?

Answer: The ratio of chromosome number between and egg and its zygote is 1 : 2. Sperm and
eggs are genetically different in terms of the nature of the 23rd chromosome. The 23rd
chromosome is a Y chromosome in sperm, while it is an X chromosome in egg.

Exemplar Problems Long Answer

Question: 49. Why are budding, fragmentation and regeneration all considered as asexual types
of reproduction? With neat diagrams explain the process of regeneration in Planaria.
Answer: Budding, fragmentation and regeneration are considered as asexual types of
reproduction because gamete formation does not happen during these modes of reproduction
and a single parent carries out the process of reproduction.

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The following figure shows regeneration in planaria:

 When the body of planaria is cut off into several part, each part regenerates its complementary
part to develop into a new individual.

Q: 50. Write two points of difference between asexual and sexual types of reproduction.
Describe why variations are observed in the offspring formed by sexual reproduction.

Answer: Two points of difference between asexual and sexual reproduction are as follows:

a. A single parent is involved in asexual reproduction, while two parents are involved in sexual
reproduction.
b. Meiosis does not happen in asexual reproduction, while meiosis happens in sexual
reproduction during gamete formation.

Reason of variations in offspring produced by sexual reproduction: Two sets of genes are
contributed by different parents, which bring different sets of characters in the offspring.

Q: 51. Distinguish between pollination and fertilisation. Mention the site and product of
fertilisation in a flower. Draw a neat, labelled diagram of a pistil showing pollen tube growth and
its entry into the ovule.

Answer: Difference between pollination and fertilization: Transfer of pollen grains from anther to
stigma is called pollination. On the other hand, fusion of male and female gametes is called
fertilization. Pollination is a physical process in which movement of pollen grains are attained by
certain physical factors. Fertilization is a biological process. Ovary is the site of fertilization and
embryo is the product of fertilization.
The following figure shows fertilization in plant:

Q: 52. Distinguish between a gamete and zygote. Explain their roles in sexual reproduction.

Answer: Gamete is formed as a result of meiosis in gametogenetic cells. Zygote is formed after
fusion two different kinds of gametes. Different types of gametes are formed by different
parents. Zygote is formed in the female reproductive part only.

Role of gamete in sexual reproduction: Gamete formation results in halving of number of

chromosomes which is necessary to maintain the number of chromosomes in an organism
which reproduces sexually.

Role of zygote in sexual reproduction: Zygote formation makes the number of chromosome
equal to the somatic cells. Further, it is the zygote which undergoes mitosis to develop into an
embryo and subsequently into a new individual.

Q: 53. Draw the diagram of a flower and label the four whorls. Write the names of gamete
producing organs in the flower.

Answer: The gamete producing organs in the flower are: anther and ovary.

Q: 54. What is placenta? Mention its role during pregnancy?

Answer: It is a issue which is attached with the embryo and the uterine wall. It is a disc-like
structure which is embedded in the uterine wall. On the embryo’s side of the tissue lie the villi
and on the mother’s side lie blood spaces. The blood spaces surround the villi. The placenta
works as a channel between the mother and the embryo. Nutrients and oxygen are supplied to
the embryo through this. Additionally, excretory products from the embryo are removed through
the placenta.

Q: 55. What are various ways to avoid pregnancy? Elaborate any one method.

Answer: There are various methods to avoid pregnancy. The physical barrier methods prevent
the entry of sperm into the uterus. The hormonal pills prevent transfer of egg to the uterus.
Copper-T is a method which prevents entry of sperms in the fallopian tube and thus prevents
fertilization. Surgical methods are permanent methods to stop the chances of pregnancy.

Copper-T: Copper-T is in the shape of ‘T’ and is made of copper. Copper is known to have
contraceptive properties. Moreover, copper-T makes a barrier in the at the opening of the
fallopian tubes in the uterus and thus prevents sperms from entering the fallopian tubes to
prevent fertilization.

Question: 56. How does fertilisation take place? Fertilisation occurs once in a month. Comment.

Answer: During the ovulation cycle; one egg is released by either of the ovaries. The egg
reaches the fallopian tube. The sperm enters the vagina during mating. From there, it enters the
uterus through cervix and reaches fallopian tube. Numerous sperms reach the fallopian tube but
only one sperm is required for fertilization.

Since only one egg is released in a single ovulation cycle and ovulation cycle happens once in a
month, so fertilization occurs once in a month.

Question: 57. Describe sexually transmitted diseases and mention the ways to prevent them.

Answer: A disease which can be transmitted through sexual contact is called sexually
transmitted disease or STD. Lack of hygiene is usually a major factor in providing conditions for
spread of STDs. But unprotected sex with multiple and unknown partners is the biggest reason
for the spread of STDs. Some of the ways to prevent STDs are as follows:

 Being faithful to one’s life partner.

 Avoiding sexual contact with unknown person.
 Using condom during sexual intercourse.
 Maintaining personal hygiene.
olved CBSE Board Questions 10th Biology- Ch How
Do Organisms Reproduce?
Q1)What is the importance of DNA copying in reproduction?
Ans-DNA is the genetic material present in the cells of all organisms. The genetic
information from,generation to generation is carried by DNA .It is therefore possible for
the organism to produce organism of its own type due to DNA copying only. For the
inheritance of traits of the parent,DNA copying is a [Link] copying also brings about
variation ,which forms the basis for the origin of new species.

Q2)What are the changes seen in girls at the time of puberty?

Ans-i) Enlargement of breasts with the darkening of skin of the nipples .
ii) growth of hair in the genital region and in armpits occurs.
iii) onset of menstruation .

Q3)If a woman is using a copper-Twill it help in protecting her from sexually transmitted
diseases(STD’s)?
Ans-No,using copper-T will not protect a woman against catching [Link]-T is a
device which will only guard her against pregnancy .

Q4)Sexual reproduction is considered advantageous over asexual reproduction? Explain

Ans-Sexual reproduction ensures that large number of variations appear in the daughter
organism constituting a population. This is made possible by the appearance of many
new gene combinations which are contributed by the two parents. Sexual reproduction
also ensures that the rate of appearance of new variations is speed up which is not
achieved due to asexual reproduction.

Q5) Mention the changes observed in flower after fertilization.

Ans-a) ovary ripens and developed into fruit.
b) ovules develop into seed.
c) petals and sepals wither and drop.
d)stigma, style and stamens dry up and fall off.

Q6)Give the advantages of vegetative propagation.

Ans-1) it is much easier,lowcost,quicker method compared to sexual reproduction.
2) plants which produce non viable seeds or too few seeds or have lost the ability to
produce seeds can be made to reproduce vegetatively to produce daughter organisms.
3) plants produced by vegetatively reproduction are genetically similar to the parent
plant and show all the characteristics of the parent.
Q7) What is placenta? Give the significance of placenta

Ans-placenta is a disc like mass of nutritive tissue which develops on the inner wall of
uterus where the fertilized egg is implanted. Placenta performs the following functions:
1)it provides all the nutrients such as glucose,proteins,minerals and vitamins to the
foetus.
2)ti provides antibodies through the mother’s blood to the [Link] antibodies
provide immunity to the child after its birth against a number of diseases.
3)it also meets the oxygen requirement of the foetus and removes carbondioxide and
other metabolic waste generated in the body of the foetus. These metabolic wastes are
ultimately removed and excreted by mother’s excretory system.

Q8)Why is reproduction essential for a species?

Ans-reproduction is necessary for species in order to increase their numbers otherwise
it will become extinct.

Q9)Name an organism which shows binary fission and another that shows multiple
fission.
Ans-binary fission-Amoeba, multiple fission-material parasite.e.,plasmodium

Q10)Name a unicellular organism and also a multi-cellular organism that show budding
process.
Ans-Unicellular-yeast, multicellular-hydra.

Q11)How do oral contraceptive pills prevent pregnancy?

Ans-oral pills do not allow release of ovum from the follicle to occur, so fertilization does
not take place.

Q12)Which is the most effective contraceptive method which will not allow sexually
transmitted diseases(STD’s) to spread?
Ans-mechanical barrier by condoms, cervical caps, etc.

Q13)Give one difference between zygote and embryo.

Ans-Zygote is single celled fusion product of sperm and ovum. Embryo is a multicellular
product produced by mitotic divisions from zygote.

14)How does the embryo derive nutrition after getting implanted in the walls of uterus?
ans-the embryo derives nutrition after getting implanted in the walls of uterus through a
disc like tissues called placenta which has villi like projections on embryo side and blood
spaces on mother’s side. This enables transport of materials like amino acids,glucose
and oxygen from mother to child.

Q15)What happens if the ovum does not fertilized in female body?

Ans-when the ovum does not get fertilized it lives for one [Link] the preparations of the
uterine lining are not needed any more, the lining breaks and comes out along with the
unfertilized ovum through the vaginal path in form of blood discharge. This is known as
menstruation as it happens once in a month and it lasts for 2-8 days.
Q16)What is the function of seminal vesicles and prostate gland in the male body?
Ans-they add their secretions to sperms in order to make the sperms lie in a fluid which
makes their flow and transport easier and also provides nutrition to sperms.

Q17)Why are pair of testes located outside the male body?

Ans-the pairs of testes are located outside the body of the males because a
temperature of 2-3 degrees C,less than the body temperature is required for production
of sperms.

Q18)Give example of two bacterial and two viral diseases which are transmitted
through sexual contact?
Ans-bacterial diseases-gonorrhoea and syphilis, viral diseases-AIDS and genital warts.

Q19)What factors have lead to adoption of contraceptive methods? give at least four
factors.
Ans-factors are:
1)growing human population.
2)spread of sexually transmitted diseases like AIDS.
3)gap between children in a family so that both mother and child get proper nutrition.
4)maintenance of sexual health.

Q20)How do sperms reach the female genital tract? where does fertilization and
implantation of the embryo takes place. For how long does the embryo remain attached
to uterine walls.
Ans-sperms travel upwards through uterus to oviduct where they may meet an ovum
and hence fertilize it. Fertilization takes place in oviduct to give rise to single celled
zygote. The zygote divides to become multicellular embryo which gets fixed in uterus.
The embryo remains attached in uterine walls throughout gestation period which is 40
weeks in humans.

Q21)How do variations help a genera to evolve?

Ans-variations are better for a species rather than an individual because the variations
enable the organism to survive competently in changing environment. When these
variations are passed to many organisms of same species it helps the new species to
originate, as variations occur in their DNA which is the genetic material and controls
entire metabolism.

Q22)What is the need for DNA to replicate during the process of reproduction?
Ans-the need for DNA to replicate is due to the DNA being an important molecule which
controls all metabolism of the body by producing proteins. No parent can give its own
genetic material, needs to replicate and get transferred to the germ cell which will carry
the information. When germ cells of two parents fuse to give rise to zygote.

Q23)What are the basic principles for contraception? Explain at least 3 principles with
example of the device used?
Ans-the basic principles are;
i)not allowing the sperm to unite with ovum-MECHANICAL barrier,[Link],cervical
caps.
Ii)not allowing the ovum to be released-CHEMICAL barriers,e.g. oral pills.
iii)creating a block in a path of ovum or sperm-SURGICAL barriers,[Link] on
males and tubectomy in females.
iv)preventing pregnancy by not allowing implantation to take place by copper-T and
loops.

Q24)Why must pollination occur before fertilization? How is pollination different from
fertilization? What does a pollen contain inside?
Ans-pollination must occur before fertilization as it has to reach the male gametes
present in pollen grain which will germinate to form a pollen tube and carry the male
gametes to the ovum. Pollination is different from fertilization Because here the pollen
grain with its male gametes just reaches the stigma, whereas fertilization of male
gamete to ovum results in formation of diploid zygote which is the foundation of new
generation.

Q25)Give differences between asexual and sexual modes of reproduction.

Ans-asexual reproduction
[Link] one parent is involved to form an offspring.
[Link] does not lead to variations.
[Link] occurs in unicellular organisms ,plants and sponges, like hydra
[Link] replicas of parents produced –can be called clones.
Sexual reproduction
[Link] parent male and female are involved to give rise to an offspring.
[Link] gives rise to variations.
[Link] in higher animals which are multicellular and well developed.
[Link] are not exact replicas,they differ from their parents.

Q26)What is vegetative propagation? Give examples of plants which can be propagated

by their: a)stems b)roots c)leaves
Ans-vegetative propagation is a method of reproduction in higher plants in which their
vegetative parts are capable of giving rise to new plants .vegetative propagation can be
natural or artificial.
[Link]-potato,onion,ginger

[Link]- banana, asparagus

[Link]- Bryophyllum

Q27)Give the functions of the following A)ovaries b)testes c)uterus d)vas deferens
e)fallopian tube
Ans: a)ovaries produce ovum; once every month alternatively. they produce estrogen
and progesterone hormone.
b) testes produce sperms and testosterone hormone.
c) uterus walls become thick to help in attachment of embryo,i.e.,implantation to
occurs.
d)vas deferens- help to carry sperms from testes to seminal vesicles.
e) fallopian tube-fertilization tube- fertilization occurs here as sperms travel to reach
vum.

Q28)what is binary fission?

Ans)Many bacteria and protozoa simply split into two equal halves during cell division.
This process is called binary fission. In organisms such as Amoeba, the splitting of the
two cells during division can take place in any plane.

Q29) what is multiple fission? Name the organism that shows this mode of reproduction.
Ans)Some single-celled organisms, such as the malarial parasite, Plasmodium, divide
into many daughter cells [Link] process is called multiple fission.

Q30) Define fragmentation?

Ans)In multi-cellular organisms with relatively simple body organisation,simple
reproductive methods can still work. Spirogyra, for example,simply breaks up into
smaller pieces upon maturation. These pieces or fragments grow into new individuals.

Q31) Define regeneration?

Ans)Many fully differentiated organisms have the ability to give rise to new individual
organisms from their body parts. That is, if the individual is somehow cut or broken up
into many pieces, many of these pieces grow into separate individuals. For example,
simple animals like Hydra and Planaria can be cut into any number of pieces and each
piece grows into a complete organism. This is known as regeneration

Q32)Explain budding in Hydra.

Ans) Organisms such as Hydra use regenerative cells for reproduction in the process of
budding. In Hydra, a bud develops as an outgrowth due to repeated cell division at one
specific site These buds develop into tiny individuals and when fully mature, detach
from the parent body and become new independent individuals.

Q33) How does bryophyllum multiply asexually?

Ans)Buds produced in the notches along the leaf margin of Bryophyllum fall on the soil
and develop into new plants.

Q34)Explain the reproduction in Rhizopus.

Ans) In Rhizopus,the tiny blob-on-a-stick structures are involved in reproduction. The
blobs are sporangia, which contain cells, or spores, that can eventually develop into
new Rhizopus [Link] spores are covered by thick walls that protect them until
they come into contact with another moist surface and can begin to grow.