Life Processes Topic Wise Assertion Reason Questions


Question 1

Assertion (A): The maintenance functions of living organisms, referred to as life processes, must persist even when the organism is inactive, such as sitting or sleeping.

Reason (R): These life processes are continuously needed to prevent damage and breakdown within the body.

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Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the Assertion and the Reason are true statements, and the Reason provides a direct and accurate explanation for why life processes (maintenance functions) are required continuously, even during periods of inactivity.


Question 2

Assertion (A): Energy for all life processes is exclusively generated internally by the organism’s own cells.

Reason (R): The source of this energy, commonly known as food, is transferred from outside the body into the organism.

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Question 3

Assertion (A): Nutrition is the process by which raw materials are acquired for the growth of an organism’s body size.

Reason (R): Nutrition also involves the transfer of an external energy source into the body.

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Answer: (B)

Explanation: Both the Assertion and the Reason are true statements. However, the Reason describes an additional function of nutrition (providing energy) rather than directly explaining why raw materials are acquired for growth. The two statements are correct facts about nutrition but not a cause-and-effect explanation.


Question 4

Assertion (A): The environment dictates the variety of energy sources available to an individual organism.

Reason (R): These varied energy sources must be broken down or built up and then converted to a uniform source for the body’s use.

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Answer: (B)

Explanation: Both the Assertion and the Reason are true statements. The Reason describes a necessary consequence and processing requirement due to the variety of energy sources mentioned in the Assertion, but it does not explain why the environment dictates that variety in the first place.


Question 5

Assertion (A): Respiration is solely concerned with the acquisition of oxygen from the external environment.

Reason (R): The process of respiration also involves using the acquired oxygen to break down food sources for cellular needs.

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Answer: (D)

Explanation: The Assertion is false because respiration involves both acquiring oxygen and using it to break down food sources. The Reason is true as it correctly states the comprehensive definition of respiration.


Question 6

Assertion (A): Single-celled organisms possess specialized organs for gas exchange due to their large body surface area.

Reason (R): The entire surface of a single-celled organism is in direct contact with the environment, facilitating direct exchange.

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Answer: (D)

Explanation: The Assertion is false. Single-celled organisms typically “no specific organs for taking in food, exchange of gases or removal of wastes may be needed because the entire surface of the organism is in contact with the environment”. The Reason is true, accurately describing the characteristic of single-celled organisms that makes specialized organs unnecessary.


Question 7

Assertion (A): Simple diffusion is insufficient for meeting the requirements of all cells in multi-cellular organisms.

Reason (R): In multi-cellular organisms, not all cells are in direct contact with the surrounding environment.

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Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the Assertion and the Reason are true statements, and the Reason directly explains why simple diffusion is inadequate for the needs of complex, multi-cellular bodies, as not all their cells can directly access the environment.


Question 8

Assertion (A): The specialization of tissues in multi-cellular organisms is a random evolutionary outcome.

Reason (R): It is not surprising that functions like food and oxygen uptake become the responsibility of specialized tissues in complex organisms.

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Answer: (D)

Explanation: The Assertion is false; the Life Processes chapter class 10 implies specialization is a systematic consequence of complexity (“it is therefore not surprising that the uptake of food and of oxygen will also be the function of specialised tissues”). The Reason is true, directly stating that such specialization is an expected feature in multi-cellular organisms.


Question 9

Assertion (A): Specialization of body parts is a characteristic feature of multi-cellular organisms.

Reason (R): This specialization facilitates the efficient uptake of food and oxygen by dedicated tissues.

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Answer: (B)

Explanation: Both the Assertion and the Reason are true statements. The Reason describes a benefit or outcome facilitated by specialization, but it does not directly explain why specialization itself is a characteristic feature of multi-cellular organisms (which is more fundamentally linked to increased body size and complexity, making simple diffusion insufficient).


Question 10

Assertion (A): Waste by-products generated during energy creation are always beneficial for the organism’s cells.

Reason (R): These by-products are created when carbon sources and oxygen are utilized for energy generation.

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Answer: (D)

Explanation: The Assertion is false because the Life Processes chapter class 10 states that these by-products are “not only useless for the cells of the body, but could even be harmful”. The Reason is true, as it correctly describes how these waste by-products are formed.


Question 11

Assertion (A): Excretion is the process by which useful nutrients are selectively removed from the body.

Reason (R): Waste by-products must be removed from the body because they are useless or potentially harmful.

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Answer: (D)

Explanation: The Assertion is false. Excretion is the process for removing “useless” or “harmful” waste by-products, not useful nutrients. The Reason is true, accurately stating why waste removal is necessary.


Question 12

Assertion (A): A specialized tissue for excretion will likely develop in multi-cellular organisms according to their body design principles.

Reason (R): The transportation system will need to transport waste away from cells to this excretory tissue.

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Answer: (B)

Explanation: Both the Assertion and the Reason are true statements. The Reason describes a logistical requirement that arises due to the presence of an excretory tissue, but it does not explain why such a specialized tissue develops in the first place (which is due to the multi-cellular body design rules and the need to remove waste from all cells).


Question 13

Assertion (A): Most food sources for life on Earth are composed of carbon-based molecules.

Reason (R): The complexity of these carbon sources influences the kind of nutritional processes different organisms employ.

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Answer: (B)

Explanation: Both the Assertion and the Reason are true statements. The Reason describes a consequence or related fact concerning the utilization of carbon-based food sources, but it does not explain why these sources are predominantly carbon-based in the first place.


Question 14

Assertion (A): The breakdown of molecules for energy involves a series of chemical reactions within the body.

Reason (R): Oxidising-reducing reactions are among the most common chemical means utilized for this breakdown process.

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Answer: (B)

Explanation: Both the Assertion and the Reason are true statements. The Reason provides a specific type of reaction that accomplishes the breakdown mentioned in the Assertion, but it does not explain why a “series of chemical reactions” is generally necessary for the conversion of energy sources.


Question 15

Assertion (A): Respiration is a process unique to multi-cellular organisms due to their complex energy demands.

Reason (R): Many organisms use oxygen sourced from outside the body for the process of breaking down food sources for cellular needs.

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Answer: (D)

Explanation: The Assertion is false because single-celled organisms also perform respiration (though perhaps without specialized organs). The Reason is true, describing an accurate aspect of respiration.


Question 16

Assertion (A): Energy is required for life processes to prevent damage and breakdown within the body.

Reason (R): This energy is spontaneously generated within the organism without any external input.

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Answer: (C)

Explanation: The Assertion is true, as energy is indeed needed for maintenance functions to prevent damage. The Reason is false because the source explicitly states that this energy “comes from outside the body of the individual organism”.


Question 17

Assertion (A): A uniform source of energy is required for various molecular movements and for building molecules for growth.

Reason (R): This uniformity is achieved by breaking down or building up the varied external energy sources.

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Answer: (C)

Explanation: The Assertion is true, as energy is indeed needed for maintenance functions to prevent damage. The Reason is false because the Life Processes chapter class 10 explicitly states that this energy “comes from outside the body of the individual organism”.


Question 18

Assertion (A): Specialized tissues in multi-cellular organisms lead to food and oxygen being taken up at one specific place.

Reason (R): This localized uptake simplifies the distribution of these substances throughout the body, making a transportation system unnecessary.


Question 19

Assertion (A): Excretion is a necessary process because waste by-products are harmful to the body’s cells.

Reason (R): The transportation system plays no role in the removal of these wastes from the body.


Question 20

Assertion (A): Nutrition is the process of transferring an external energy source, called food, into the organism.

Reason (R): This process primarily ensures the organism can perform specific actions like running or hunting.

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Answer: (C)

Explanation: The Assertion is true, correctly defining nutrition’s role in energy transfer. The Reason is false because nutrition and life processes generally are about fundamental “maintenance functions” and preventing “damage and break-down” even when inactive, not primarily for active tasks like running or hunting.


Question 21

Assertion (A): The multi-cellular body design leads to specialized tissues for functions like uptake of food and oxygen.

Reason (R): This specialization allows the organism to grow in size and complexity beyond what simple diffusion can support.

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Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the Assertion and the Reason are true statements. The Reason explains the underlying challenge (size and complexity limiting diffusion) that drives the need for specialization as described in the Assertion.


Question 22

Assertion (A): Oxidizing-reducing reactions are a common means to break down molecules in the body.

Reason (R): This breakdown process primarily utilizes nitrogen sourced from outside the body for chemical reactions.

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Answer: (C)

Explanation: The Assertion is true, as oxidizing-reducing reactions are common for molecular breakdown. The Reason is false, as “many organisms use oxygen sourced from outside the body” for this process, not nitrogen.


Question 23

Assertion (A): The body size of organisms can increase only if additional raw material is sourced from outside the body.

Reason (R): Life processes themselves only perform maintenance functions and do not contribute to growth.

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Answer: (C)

Explanation: The Assertion is true, as “additional raw material will also be needed from outside” for growth. The Reason is false, as while life processes are maintenance, the acquisition of raw material for growth is directly linked to the overall functions that maintain and develop the organism, not separate from “life processes”.


Question 24

Assertion (A): The process of respiration involves both acquiring oxygen and using it to break down food sources.

Reason (R): This breakdown of food sources is essential for generating the energy required for cellular needs.

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Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the Assertion and the Reason are true statements, and the Reason provides the direct purpose and importance of the breakdown of food sources within the respiratory process described in the Assertion.


Question 25

Assertion (A): Specialized tissues for excretion are developed in multi-cellular organisms.

Reason (R): This development follows the basic rules for body design in multi-cellular organisms, emphasizing specialized functions for various parts.

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Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the Assertion and the Reason are true statements, and the Reason explains why the development of specialized excretory tissue occurs, linking it back to the fundamental principle of specialization in multi-cellular body design.


Assertion (A): All living organisms require energy and materials from outside themselves.

Reason (R): Energy is needed to maintain a state of order in the body, and materials are necessary for growth, development, and synthesis of substances.

Answer: A

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason directly explains why living organisms need external energy and materials – to sustain life processes, growth, and synthesis within their bodies.

Assertion (A): Heterotrophs depend directly or indirectly on autotrophs for their survival.

Reason (R): Autotrophs convert simple inorganic substances into complex stored forms of energy, which heterotrophs then consume or consume organisms that have consumed autotrophs.

Answer: A

Explanation: The assertion is true, stating the dependence of heterotrophs on autotrophs. The reason explains this dependence by highlighting that autotrophs are the primary producers, converting inorganic materials into usable energy in the form of carbohydrates, which forms the base of the food chain.

Assertion (A): Animals are classified as autotrophs.

Reason (R): Autotrophs obtain food material from inorganic sources like carbon dioxide and water.

Answer: D

Explanation: The assertion is false; animals are heterotrophs, not autotrophs. The reason is true, correctly defining how autotrophs obtain their food.

Assertion (A): Carbohydrates produced during photosynthesis are immediately and entirely used for providing energy to the plant.

Reason (R): Any carbohydrates not used immediately are stored as starch, serving as an internal energy reserve for future use.

Answer: D

Explanation: The assertion is false because not all carbohydrates are used immediately; some are stored. The reason is true and provides correct information about the storage of excess carbohydrates as starch.

Assertion (A): The process of photosynthesis fulfils the carbon and energy requirements of autotrophic organisms.

Reason (R): Photosynthesis involves the conversion of carbon dioxide and water into carbohydrates in the presence of sunlight and chlorophyll.

Answer: A

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason precisely describes the chemical transformation that takes place during photosynthesis, which directly fulfils the carbon and energy needs of autotrophs.

Assertion (A): The splitting of water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen is a crucial event in photosynthesis.

Reason (R): This step converts light energy into chemical energy.

Answer: B

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. The splitting of water is indeed a crucial event (photolysis), and it occurs concurrently with the conversion of light energy to chemical energy. However, the reason states that this step (splitting of water) is the conversion of light energy to chemical energy. More accurately, the splitting of water is part of the light-dependent reactions where light energy is converted and water is split, yielding hydrogen and oxygen and contributing to the chemical energy formation (e.g., ATP and NADPH, although not explicitly mentioned in the Life Processes chapter class 10 for chemical energy type). The reason is a general statement about the second step listed, not a direct explanation of why water splitting is crucial in itself other than being a component of the light-to-chemical energy conversion process.

Assertion (A): Chlorophyll is essential for photosynthesis.

Reason (R): Chlorophyll absorbs light energy, which is the initial step in the photosynthetic process.

Answer: A

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains why chlorophyll is essential: it performs the vital function of absorbing light energy, initiating photosynthesis.

Assertion (A): Desert plants take up carbon dioxide at night.

Reason (R): This adaptation allows them to prevent excessive water loss during the day when temperatures are high.

Answer: A

Explanation: The assertion is true; desert plants indeed take up CO2 at night. The reason is also true and provides a valid explanation, as stomata (which control CO2 uptake and water loss) are typically closed during the hot day to conserve water, necessitating nocturnal CO2 uptake.

Assertion (A): Gaseous exchange for photosynthesis primarily occurs through stomata on leaves.

Reason (R): Stomata are tiny pores present on the surface of the leaves, facilitating massive amounts of gaseous exchange.

Answer: A

Explanation: Both statements are true and the reason provides the direct explanation for the assertion. Stomata are specialized pores that allow for significant gaseous exchange required for photosynthesis.

Assertion (A): The opening and closing of stomatal pores are regulated by guard cells.

Reason (R): Guard cells swell when water flows into them, causing the stomatal pore to open.

Answer: A

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason provides a direct mechanism by which guard cells control stomatal opening, thereby explaining the assertion.

Assertion (A): Plants obtain water for photosynthesis from the soil through their roots.

Reason (R): Water is reduced to carbohydrates during photosynthesis.

Answer: C

Explanation: The assertion is true; terrestrial plants absorb water from the soil via roots. The reason is false; water is split into hydrogen and oxygen, while carbon dioxide is reduced to carbohydrates.

Assertion (A): Nitrogen is an essential element for plants.

Reason (R): Nitrogen is used in the synthesis of proteins and other compounds in the plant body.

Answer: A

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason directly explains why nitrogen is essential by detailing its role in synthesizing vital plant components.

Assertion (A): Plants can only take up nitrogen in the form of inorganic nitrates or nitrites.

Reason (R): Bacteria in the soil convert atmospheric nitrogen into organic compounds that plants can absorb.

Answer: D

Explanation: The assertion is false because plants can take up nitrogen as inorganic nitrates/nitrites or as organic compounds prepared by bacteria from atmospheric nitrogen. The reason is true, describing an alternative way plants obtain nitrogen through bacterial action.

Assertion (A): Heterotrophs use bio-catalysts called enzymes to break down complex substances.

Reason (R): Enzymes are necessary to convert simple food materials into complex ones for body upkeep.

Answer: C

Explanation: The assertion is true; heterotrophs use enzymes to break down complex substances. The reason is false; enzymes are used to break complex substances into simpler ones for upkeep and growth, not to convert simple into complex.

Assertion (A): The green dots observed in a cross-section of a leaf under a microscope are stomata.

Reason (R): These green dots are cell organelles called chloroplasts which contain chlorophyll.

Answer: D

Explanation: The assertion is false; the green dots are chloroplasts, not stomata. The reason is true, correctly identifying the green dots as chloroplasts containing chlorophyll.

Assertion (A): Photosynthesis involves the reduction of carbon dioxide to carbohydrates.

Reason (R): Carbohydrates are complex substances that need to be broken down before being used for energy by the plant.

Answer: C

Explanation: The assertion is true; reduction of carbon dioxide to carbohydrates is a key step in photosynthesis. The reason is false in context of how plants use their own carbohydrates; carbohydrates are utilised for providing energy, not necessarily broken down into simpler forms before use for energy by the plant itself, as they are already the stored energy form. The breaking down of complex substances applies more to heterotrophs.

Assertion (A): The internal energy reserve in plants is stored in the form of glycogen.

Reason (R): A somewhat similar situation is seen in humans where some energy from food is stored as glycogen.

Answer: D

Explanation: The assertion is false; plants store energy as starch, not glycogen. The reason is true, correctly stating that humans store energy as glycogen, drawing an analogy to plant starch.

Assertion (A): Massive amounts of gaseous exchange occur in leaves through stomata for the purpose of photosynthesis.

Reason (R): Plants close these pores when they do not need carbon dioxide for photosynthesis to prevent large amounts of water loss.

Answer: B

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. The assertion describes the function of stomata in gas exchange, and the reason describes their regulation to prevent water loss. While related to stomata, the reason does not directly explain why gaseous exchange occurs through stomata, but rather describes a regulatory mechanism associated with them.

Assertion (A): Energy is needed to maintain a state of order in our body.

Reason (R): This is why we use up energy when we walk or ride a bicycle.

Answer: B

Explanation: Both statements are true. Energy is indeed needed for maintaining order. Walking or riding a bicycle are also activities that use energy. However, the reason does not explain why energy is needed to maintain order; rather, it provides an example of energy expenditure for visible activity, separate from the baseline energy needed for order.

Assertion (A): The steps of photosynthesis, such as light absorption and carbon dioxide reduction, must occur one immediately after the other.

Reason (R): Desert plants demonstrate this by taking up carbon dioxide at night and processing it during the day.

Answer: D

Explanation: The assertion is false because the Life Processes chapter class 10 states that the steps of photosynthesis need not take place one after another immediately. The reason is true as it accurately describes the process in desert plants where CO2 is taken at night and processed during the day.

Assertion (A): Nitrogen, phosphorus, iron, and magnesium are obtained from the soil by terrestrial plants.

Reason (R): These are essential raw materials for building the plant’s body.

Answer: A

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason explains why these elements are absorbed from the soil – they are necessary building blocks for the plant’s structure and functions.

Assertion (A): The process of photosynthesis allows autotrophs to convert stored forms of energy into substances from the outside.

Reason (R): Autotrophs take in carbon dioxide and water to convert them into carbohydrates.

Answer: D

Explanation: The assertion is false; photosynthesis converts substances from the outside (CO2, water) into stored forms of energy (carbohydrates), not the other way around. The reason is true, accurately describing the inputs and outputs of photosynthesis.

Assertion (A): Stomata are the only pores for gaseous exchange in plants.

Reason (R): Massive amounts of gaseous exchange occur through stomata for photosynthesis.

Answer: C

Explanation: The assertion is false; while stomata are crucial, the Life Processes chapter class 10 notes that exchange of gases also occurs across the surface of stems and roots. The reason is true, highlighting the significant role of stomata in gaseous exchange for photosynthesis.

Assertion (A): Organisms require bio-catalysts called enzymes to break down complex substances into simpler ones.

Reason (R): Enzymes are essential for autotrophs to convert inorganic sources into food material.

Answer: C

Explanation: The assertion is true, correctly stating the role of enzymes for breaking down complex substances. The reason is false; enzymes are specifically mentioned for heterotrophs to break down complex substances, not for autotrophs to convert inorganic sources into food (that’s photosynthesis, which relies on chlorophyll and light energy, not primarily enzymes for the initial conversion step described).

Assertion (A): Chloroplasts are small green dots found within cells of a leaf.

Reason (R): They contain chlorophyll, which is the green pigment responsible for absorbing light energy.

Answer: A

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. The reason accurately identifies chlorophyll as the pigment within chloroplasts and explains its function in light absorption, which is critical for photosynthesis.


Analogy for Conceptual Understanding: Think of a plant as a solar-powered factory. The chloroplasts are the main assembly lines within the factory cells, and chlorophyll is the specific solar panel on those lines, specialized in capturing sunlight.


The stomata are like the factory’s loading docks, opening and closing to let in raw materials (carbon dioxide) and release waste (oxygen), but they must also be managed carefully to prevent too much valuable water from escaping. The roots are the supply lines for water and other essential minerals from the ground.

All these components work together to take simple, inorganic raw materials and transform them into energy-rich carbohydrates, which are the factory’s product, fueling its operations and growth, much like a well-run factory efficiently converts raw goods into valuable products for consumption or storage.

Instructions: In each of the following questions, a statement of Assertion (A) is given followed by a corresponding statement of Reason (R).

Choose the correct option from the following:

(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.

(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.

(C) A is true but R is false.

(D) A is false but R is true.



Assertion (A): The design of an organism’s digestive system is largely determined by the type of food it consumes and its method of obtaining that food.

Reason (R): Different nutritional strategies necessitate varied anatomical and physiological adaptations for processing nutrients.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion. The Life Processes chapter class 10 states, “Since the food and the way it is obtained differ, the digestive system is different in various organisms”. This directly supports the idea that the digestive system adapts based on the food and its acquisition method.

Assertion (A): In single-celled organisms, food intake can occur across the entire cell surface.

Reason (R): As the complexity of an organism increases, different parts become specialized to perform distinct functions, including food acquisition.

Answer: (B)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, but the reason does not explain the assertion. The assertion correctly describes food intake in simple unicellular organisms. The reason accurately describes the principle of specialization in more complex organisms. While related to the broader topic of nutrition, the reason describes a contrasting characteristic of complex organisms rather than providing a direct explanation for how unicellular organisms take in food.

Assertion (A): Amoeba engulfs food particles using temporary finger-like extensions of its cell surface.

Reason (R): These temporary extensions, called pseudopodia, are permanent structures of the cell membrane.

Answer: (C)

Explanation: The assertion is true. Amoeba indeed uses “temporary finger-like extensions of the cell surface” to take in food. However, the reason is false because these extensions are explicitly described as “temporary”, not permanent.

Assertion (A): Digestion in Paramoecium occurs globally across its entire cell surface.

Reason (R): Paramoecium is a unicellular organism that possesses a definite shape and takes in food at a specific spot.

Answer: (D)

Explanation: The assertion is false. The Life Processes chapter class 10 clearly states that in Paramoecium, “the cell has a definite shape and food is taken in at a specific spot”, which contradicts the idea of global digestion. The reason is true, accurately describing Paramoecium’s definite shape and specific food intake location.

5. Question: Assertion (A): Simpler substances, resulting from the breakdown of complex food within the food-vacuole of Amoeba, become available for cellular use.

Reason (R): These simpler substances diffuse into the cytoplasm from the food-vacuole.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains how the simpler substances become available. The source states that after complex substances are broken down inside the food-vacuole, they “then diffuse into the cytoplasm”. This diffusion makes them accessible for cellular processes.

6. Question:

Assertion (A): The specific feeding mechanism of an organism, such as the use of pseudopodia in Amoeba or cilia in Paramoecium, is determined by its overall cellular structure.

Reason (R): Amoeba has a flexible cell surface allowing for temporary extensions, while Paramoecium has a definite shape requiring specific food collection tools.

Answer: (B)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion. The assertion highlights a connection between structure and feeding mechanism. The reason accurately describes the structural differences (flexible vs. definite shape) and their respective feeding adaptations. However, the reason describes how those differences manifest, rather than directly explaining why the overall cellular structure determines the mechanism. It’s more of an illustration than a direct causal explanation.

7. Question:

Assertion (A): Cilia play a crucial role in the nutritional process of Paramecium.

Reason (R): Cilia cover the entire surface of the Paramecium cell and their movement directs food particles towards a specific ingestion spot.

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Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason provides the correct explanation for the assertion. The source explicitly states, “Food is moved to this spot by the movement of cilia which cover the entire surface of the cell” in Paramoecium.

8. Question:

Assertion (A): Complex organisms are characterized by the absence of specialized parts for different functions.

Reason (R): As the complexity of an organism increases, different parts become specialized to perform different functions.

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Answer: (D)

Explanation: The assertion is false. Complex organisms do have specialized parts. The reason is true, directly stating that “as the complexity of the organism increases, different parts become specialised to perform different functions”.

9. Question:

Assertion (A): The formation of a food-vacuole is a critical step in the intracellular digestion process of Amoeba.

Reason (R): The food-vacuole provides a confined environment where complex food substances can be broken down into simpler, absorbable forms.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the importance of the food-vacuole. The source describes its formation by the fusion of extensions over food particles and explicitly states that “Inside the food-vacuole, complex substances are broken down into simpler ones”, making it essential for digestion.

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Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the importance of the food-vacuole. The Life Processes chapter class 10 describes its formation by the fusion of extensions over food particles and explicitly states that “Inside the food-vacuole, complex substances are broken down into simpler ones”, making it essential for digestion.

10. Question:

Assertion (A): Undigested material in Amoeba is permanently stored within the cell to prevent nutrient loss.

Reason (R): The remaining undigested material is moved to the surface of the cell and thrown out.

Answer: (D)

Explanation: The assertion is false. Undigested material is not permanently stored; it is expelled. The reason is true, accurately describing the egestion process in Amoeba: “The remaining undigested material is moved to the surface of the cell and thrown out”.

11. Question:

Assertion (A): Ingestion of food in Paramoecium is facilitated by the movement of cilia.

Reason (R): The cilia in Paramoecium directly digest the food substances before they enter the cell.

Answer: (C)

Explanation: The assertion is true; cilia are responsible for moving food to a specific spot for intake in Paramoecium. However, the reason is false. Cilia are involved in movement of food, not its direct digestion. Digestion of complex substances occurs inside the food-vacuole (implied by the general description of unicellular digestion and specific mention for Amoeba).

12. Question:

Assertion (A): The structure of the digestive system in various organisms shows considerable diversity.

Reason (R): This diversity reflects the differing food sources available in various habitats.

Answer: (B)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion. The assertion is true, as indicated by the variations between Amoeba and Paramoecium, and the general statement about differing digestive systems. The reason is also true in a biological context, as food source influences adaptation. However, the source states that the digestive system differs because “the food and the way it is obtained differ”, implying both food type and acquisition method are the reasons for difference, not just the food source (habitat). The reason doesn’t fully capture the source’s explanation.

Answer: (B)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion. The assertion is true, as indicated by the variations between Amoeba and Paramoecium, and the general statement about differing digestive systems. The reason is also true in a biological context, as food source influences adaptation. However, the Life Processes chapter class 10 states that the digestive system differs because “the food and the way it is obtained differ”, implying both food type and acquisition method are the reasons for difference, not just the food source (habitat). The reason doesn’t fully capture the source’s explanation.


Assertion (A): The process of nutrition in Amoeba involves sequential steps: ingestion, digestion, absorption, and egestion.

Reason (R): After the breakdown of complex substances in the food-vacuole, simpler substances diffuse into the cytoplasm, and any remaining undigested material is expelled.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the sequence of events in Amoeba’s nutrition. The source describes food being taken in, complex substances broken down inside the food-vacuole, simpler ones diffusing into the cytoplasm, and undigested material being thrown out, which corresponds to ingestion, digestion, absorption, and egestion.

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Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the sequence of events in Amoeba’s nutrition. The Life Processes chapter class 10 describes food being taken in, complex substances broken down inside the food-vacuole, simpler ones diffusing into the cytoplasm, and undigested material being thrown out, which corresponds to ingestion, digestion, absorption, and egestion.

Assertion (A): The definitive shape of Paramoecium allows it to consume food from any point on its cell surface.

Reason (R): Paramoecium’s definite shape necessitates food intake at a specific spot.

Answer: (D)

Explanation: The assertion is false. A definite shape, as seen in Paramoecium, restricts food intake to a specific spot, rather than allowing it from anywhere on the surface. The reason is true, directly stating that Paramoecium “has a definite shape and food is taken in at a specific spot”.

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Answer: (D)

Explanation: The assertion is false. A definite shape, as seen in Paramoecium, restricts food intake to a specific spot, rather than allowing it from anywhere on the surface. The reason is true, directly stating that Paramoecium “has a definite shape and food is taken in at a specific spot”.

Assertion (A): Paramoecium’s cell surface is entirely covered by cilia.

Reason (R): These cilia are primarily used for anchoring the Paramoecium to a substrate.

Answer: (C)

Explanation: The assertion is true; the source states that cilia “cover the entire surface of the cell”. However, the reason is false. The source specifies that cilia’s function is to move food to a specific spot, not for anchoring.

Answer: (C)

Explanation: The assertion is true; the source states that cilia “cover the entire surface of the cell”. However, the reason is false. The source specifies that cilia’s function is to move food to a specific spot, not for anchoring.

Assertion (A): The internal breakdown of complex food substances in unicellular organisms primarily occurs in specialized digestive organelles located in the cytoplasm.

Reason (R): In Amoeba, complex substances are broken down into simpler ones inside the food-vacuole.

Answer: (B)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion. The assertion is broadly true for Amoeba, where the food-vacuole acts as a specialized organelle. The reason specifies this breakdown in Amoeba’s food-vacuole. However, the reason describes where the breakdown occurs, not why it happens in specialized organelles in unicellular organisms in general. The assertion is a broader statement, and the reason is a specific example.

Answer: (B)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion. The assertion is broadly true for Amoeba, where the food-vacuole acts as a specialized organelle. The reason specifies this breakdown in Amoeba’s food-vacuole. However, the reason describes where the breakdown occurs, not why it happens in specialized organelles in unicellular organisms in general. The assertion is a broader statement, and the reason is a specific example.

Assertion (A): The evolution of functional specialization is a direct consequence of increasing organismal complexity.

Reason (R): In simpler organisms, the entire body surface often handles multiple functions, which becomes inefficient with increasing size and complexity, necessitating dedicated structures.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion. The source states, “But as the complexity of the organism increases, different parts become specialised to perform different functions”. The reason elaborates on the conceptual basis for this specialization, highlighting the limitations of relying on the entire surface for complex needs.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion. The source states, “But as the complexity of the organism increases, different parts become specialised to perform different functions”. The reason elaborates on the conceptual basis for this specialization, highlighting the limitations of relying on the entire surface for complex needs.

Assertion (A): In Paramoecium, undigested material is expelled through temporary finger-like extensions similar to Amoeba.

Reason (R): In Amoeba, the remaining undigested material is moved to the surface of the cell and thrown out.

Answer: (D)

Explanation: The assertion is false. The source describes Amoeba using temporary extensions for food intake, not Paramoecium for egestion, nor does it describe Paramoecium’s egestion method in detail, only its food intake. The reason is true, accurately describing the egestion process in Amoeba.

Answer: (D)

Explanation: The assertion is false. The source describes Amoeba using temporary extensions for food intake, not Paramoecium for egestion, nor does it describe Paramoecium’s egestion method in detail, only its food intake. The reason is true, accurately describing the egestion process in Amoeba.

Assertion (A): The mechanisms of food acquisition in single-celled organisms can vary significantly.

Reason (R): Amoeba employs temporary finger-like extensions for food uptake, while Paramoecium utilizes cilia to direct food to a specific intake spot.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion. The assertion states there’s variation, and the reason provides two distinct examples (Amoeba and Paramoecium) from the source that clearly illustrate this variation in food acquisition methods.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion. The assertion states there’s variation, and the reason provides two distinct examples (Amoeba and Paramoecium) from the source that clearly illustrate this variation in food acquisition methods.

Assertion (A): The efficiency of food collection in unicellular organisms is directly proportional to their cell surface area.

Reason (R): In Paramoecium, cilia covering the entire surface move food to a specific spot, indicating an advanced food collection mechanism compared to generalized surface intake.

Answer: (B)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion. While surface area is relevant for diffusion, the assertion about direct proportionality isn’t explicitly stated or implied as a universal rule for efficiency of collection across all unicellulars. The reason accurately describes Paramoecium’s cilia function. However, Paramoecium’s specialized method (R) doesn’t directly explain why efficiency is proportional to surface area (A); rather, it shows how a definite shape requires a different strategy.

Answer: (B)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion. While surface area is relevant for diffusion, the assertion about direct proportionality isn’t explicitly stated or implied as a universal rule for efficiency of collection across all unicellulars. The reason accurately describes Paramoecium’s cilia function. However, Paramoecium’s specialized method (R) doesn’t directly explain why efficiency is proportional to surface area (A); rather, it shows how a definite shape requires a different strategy.

Assertion (A): All substances taken into Amoeba’s food-vacuole are immediately absorbed into the cytoplasm without further processing.

Reason (R): Inside the food-vacuole, complex substances are broken down into simpler ones which then diffuse into the cytoplasm.

Answer: (D)

Explanation: The assertion is false. The source indicates that complex substances are broken down inside the food-vacuole before they diffuse into the cytoplasm. The reason is true, accurately describing the digestion and absorption process within Amoeba.

Answer: (D)

Explanation: The assertion is false. The source indicates that complex substances are broken down inside the food-vacuole before they diffuse into the cytoplasm. The reason is true, accurately describing the digestion and absorption process within Amoeba.

Assertion (A): Amoeba takes in food using temporary finger-like extensions.

Reason (R): These temporary extensions are permanent structures of the cell membrane, ensuring continuous food capture.

Answer: (C)

Explanation: The assertion is true; Amoeba uses “temporary finger-like extensions” to take in food. The reason, however, is false as these extensions are explicitly described as “temporary”, not permanent structures ensuring continuous capture.

Answer: (C)

Explanation: The assertion is true; Amoeba uses “temporary finger-like extensions” to take in food. The reason, however, is false as these extensions are explicitly described as “temporary”, not permanent structures ensuring continuous capture.

Assertion (A): The expulsion of undigested waste is a final and necessary step in the nutritional process of Amoeba.

Reason (R): The remaining undigested material is moved to the surface of the cell and then discarded.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains how this necessary step occurs. The source details the entire process from intake to digestion, diffusion, and finally, that “The remaining undigested material is moved to the surface of the cell and thrown out”, indicating it as the final stage of nutritional processing.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains how this necessary step occurs. The source details the entire process from intake to digestion, diffusion, and finally, that “The remaining undigested material is moved to the surface of the cell and thrown out”, indicating it as the final stage of nutritional processing.

Assertion (A): The key difference in nutritional intake between Amoeba and Paramoecium primarily relates to their method of locomotion.

Reason (R): Amoeba uses temporary extensions for food intake, while Paramoecium uses cilia to direct food to a specific spot.

Answer: (D)

Explanation: The assertion is false. While both organisms have different locomotion (pseudopodia for Amoeba, cilia for Paramoecium), the source focuses on their distinct food intake mechanisms as the primary difference related to nutrition. The reason is true, accurately stating the different food intake mechanisms for Amoeba and Paramoecium.

Answer: (D)

Explanation: The assertion is false. While both organisms have different locomotion (pseudopodia for Amoeba, cilia for Paramoecium), the source focuses on their distinct food intake mechanisms as the primary difference related to nutrition. The reason is true, accurately stating the different food intake mechanisms for Amoeba and Paramoecium.

Assertion (A): Nutritional processes in unicellular organisms are inherently more complex than those in multicellular organisms due to the lack of specialized organs.

Reason (R): In multicellular organisms, different body parts become specialized to perform distinct functions as complexity increases.

Answer: (B) Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion. The assertion is false; unicellular organisms generally have simpler nutritional processes precisely because they lack specialized organs and rely on basic cellular mechanisms. The reason is true, stating the principle of specialization in more complex organisms. The reason describes a characteristic of multicellular organisms that makes their processes more complex, not why unicellular processes are more complex.

Answer: (B)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion. The assertion is false; unicellular organisms generally have simpler nutritional processes precisely because they lack specialized organs and rely on basic cellular mechanisms. The reason is true, stating the principle of specialization in more complex organisms. The reason describes a characteristic of multicellular organisms that makes their processes more complex, not why unicellular processes are more complex.


Assertion and Reason Questions on Heterotrophic Nutritional Strategies

Instructions: For each question, two statements are given: an Assertion (A) and a Reason (R). Choose the correct option from the following:

  • (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
  • (B) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
  • (C) A is true, but R is false.
  • (D) A is false, but R is true.

1. Question:

Assertion (A): The diverse forms of heterotrophic nutrition observed across different organisms reflect their specific adaptations to environmental conditions.

Reason (R): An organism’s nutritional strategy is influenced by the type and availability of food, as well as how it is obtained.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true because the source states, “Each organism is adapted to its environment”, and there is “a range of strategies”. Reason (R) is also true as it directly lists the factors that determine this adaptation and variation: “The form of nutrition differs depending on the type and availability of food material as well as how it is obtained by the organism”. Reason (R) accurately explains why diverse forms of nutrition exist, linking them to environmental factors and methods of acquisition, thereby supporting the assertion of adaptation.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true because the source states, “Each organism is adapted to its environment”, and there is “a range of strategies”. Reason (R) is also true as it directly lists the factors that determine this adaptation and variation: “The form of nutrition differs depending on the type and availability of food material as well as how it is obtained by the organism”. Reason (R) accurately explains why diverse forms of nutrition exist, linking them to environmental factors and methods of acquisition, thereby supporting the assertion of adaptation.


2. Question:

Assertion (A): Fungi, like yeast, are unique among heterotrophs for absorbing nutrients after external digestion.

Reason (R): The body design of fungi prevents the internal breakdown of complex food materials.

Answer: (B) Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. The source explicitly states that some organisms, giving examples of fungi like yeast, “break-down the food material outside the body and then absorb it”, which is distinct from others that “take in whole material and break it down inside their bodies”. Reason (R) is also true in a general biological context regarding fungal physiology, as their cellular structure often limits internal ingestion of large particles. However, the provided source only states that “What can be taken in and broken down depends on the body design and functioning”, but does not explicitly state that the body design of fungi prevents internal breakdown. Therefore, while both statements are true, the reason is not directly supported as the explanation.

Answer: (B)

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. The source explicitly states that some organisms, giving examples of fungi like yeast, “break-down the food material outside the body and then absorb it”, which is distinct from others that “take in whole material and break it down inside their bodies”. Reason (R) is also true in a general biological context regarding fungal physiology, as their cellular structure often limits internal ingestion of large particles. However, the provided source only states that “What can be taken in and broken down depends on the body design and functioning”, but does not explicitly state that the body design of fungi prevents internal breakdown. Therefore, while both statements are true, the reason is not directly supported as the explanation.


3. Question:

Assertion (A): The body design and functioning of an organism dictate what can be taken in and broken down internally.

Reason (R): All organisms that take in whole material have the same digestive processes, regardless of their body design.

Answer: (C) Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. The chapter clearly states, “What can be taken in and broken down depends on the body design and functioning”. Reason (R) is false. The chapter emphasizes that “What can be taken in and broken down depends on the body design and functioning”, implying that digestive processes would indeed vary based on body design, not remain the same.

Answer: (C)

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. The source clearly states, “What can be taken in and broken down depends on the body design and functioning”. Reason (R) is false. The source emphasizes that “What can be taken in and broken down depends on the body design and functioning”, implying that digestive processes would indeed vary based on body design, not remain the same.


4. Question:

Assertion (A): Organisms adopting a parasitic nutritive strategy typically consume whole food material and break it down inside their bodies.

Reason (R): Cuscuta (amar-bel) is an example of an organism that derives nutrition from plants without killing them.

Answer: (D) Explanation: Assertion (A) is false. The source defines parasitic nutrition as deriving “nutrition from plants or animals without killing them”. This is a distinct strategy from those that “take in whole material and break it down inside their bodies”. Reason (R) is true. Cuscuta (amar-bel) is specifically listed as an example of an organism using this parasitic strategy.


Answer: (D)

Explanation: Assertion (A) is false. The source defines parasitic nutrition as deriving “nutrition from plants or animals without killing them”. This is a distinct strategy from those that “take in whole material and break it down inside their bodies”. Reason (R) is true. Cuscuta (amar-bel) is specifically listed as an example of an organism using this parasitic strategy.

5. Question:

Assertion (A): The diverse ways organisms obtain food underscore their unique adaptations to their ecological niches.

Reason (R): The method of obtaining food is a key factor influencing the specific nutritional strategy employed by an organism.

Answer: (A) Explanation: Assertion (A) is true, as the source highlights that organisms are adapted to their environment and the form of nutrition differs based on how food is obtained. Reason (R) is also true, as “how it is obtained by the organism” is explicitly mentioned as a factor influencing nutrition. Reason (R) directly explains Assertion (A) by outlining one of the primary drivers behind the diverse adaptations and resulting nutritional strategies.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true, as the source highlights that organisms are adapted to their environment and the form of nutrition differs based on how food is obtained. Reason (R) is also true, as “how it is obtained by the organism” is explicitly mentioned as a factor influencing nutrition. Reason (R) directly explains Assertion (A) by outlining one of the primary drivers behind the diverse adaptations and resulting nutritional strategies.


6. Question:

Assertion (A): Bread moulds utilize a unique method of acquiring nutrients by breaking down food outside their cellular structure.

Reason (R): This external digestion allows bread moulds to absorb pre-digested complex organic compounds efficiently.

Answer: (B) Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. The source states that “Some organisms break-down the food material outside the body and then absorb it. Examples are fungi like bread moulds”. Reason (R) is also true, as the purpose of external breakdown is indeed to make complex compounds absorbable. However, Reason (R) describes the outcome or mechanism of the external digestion mentioned in Assertion (A), rather than providing the fundamental reason or explanation for why bread moulds employ this specific unique method.

Answer: (B)

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. The chapter states that “Some organisms break-down the food material outside the body and then absorb it. Examples are fungi like bread moulds”. Reason (R) is also true, as the purpose of external breakdown is indeed to make complex compounds absorbable. However, Reason (R) describes the outcome or mechanism of the external digestion mentioned in Assertion (A), rather than providing the fundamental reason or explanation for why bread moulds employ this specific unique method.


7. Question:

Assertion (A): The availability of food material significantly influences the specific heterotrophic nutritional strategy adopted by an organism.

Reason (R): A cow’s nutritive apparatus is primarily adapted for capturing and digesting mobile food sources like deer.

Answer: (C) Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. The source explicitly states that “The form of nutrition differs depending on the type and availability of food material”. Reason (R) is false. The source contrasts a cow’s nutrition (related to “stationary (such as grass)”) with a lion’s (related to “mobile (such as a deer)”), indicating that a cow’s apparatus is adapted for stationary food, not mobile prey.

Answer: (C)

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. The source explicitly states that “The form of nutrition differs depending on the type and availability of food material”. Reason (R) is false. The source contrasts a cow’s nutrition (related to “stationary (such as grass)”) with a lion’s (related to “mobile (such as a deer)”), indicating that a cow’s apparatus is adapted for stationary food, not mobile prey.


8. Question:

Assertion (A): Ticks are examples of organisms that consume their host entirely to derive maximum nutrition.

Reason (R): Parasitic nutrition involves deriving nutrients from a living host without causing its immediate demise.

Answer: (D) Explanation: Assertion (A) is false. Ticks are listed as examples of parasitic organisms, and the parasitic strategy is defined as deriving nutrition “without killing them”. Therefore, they do not consume their host entirely. Reason (R) is true. This statement is a direct definition of parasitic nutrition provided in the source.

Answer: (D)

Explanation: Assertion (A) is false. Ticks are listed as examples of parasitic organisms, and the parasitic strategy is defined as deriving nutrition “without killing them”. Therefore, they do not consume their host entirely. Reason (R) is true. This statement is a direct definition of parasitic nutrition provided in in your book chapter on life processes.


9. Question:

Assertion (A): Organisms that take in whole material must have a body design capable of internal breakdown.

Reason (R): The ability to break down food inside the body is directly dependent on the organism’s inherent body design and functioning.

Answer: (A) Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. The source states, “Others take in whole material and break it down inside their bodies. What can be taken in and broken down depends on the body design and functioning”. This implies that a capable body design is necessary. Reason (R) is also true, as it is a direct quote from the source explaining the condition for internal breakdown. Reason (R) thus serves as the correct explanation for Assertion (A).

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. The chapter states, “Others take in whole material and break it down inside their bodies. What can be taken in and broken down depends on the body design and functioning”. This implies that a capable body design is necessary. Reason (R) is also true, as it is a direct quote from the source explaining the condition for internal breakdown. Reason (R) thus serves as the correct explanation for Assertion (A).


10. Question:

Assertion (A): Mushrooms are heterotrophic organisms that break down food material outside their bodies before absorption.

Reason (R): This external digestion process is a form of saprophytic nutrition, enabling them to thrive on decaying organic matter.

Answer: (B) Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. Mushrooms are listed as fungi that “break-down the food material outside the body and then absorb it”. Reason (R) is biologically true (saprophytic nutrition is a specific type of external digestion often associated with decaying matter), but the source does not use the term “saprophytic” or explicitly state that their external digestion enables them to thrive on “decaying organic matter”. While R is true, it introduces information not directly supported or explained by the provided text as the reason for A. Therefore, it is not the correct explanation from the source’s context.

Answer: (B)

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. Mushrooms are listed as fungi that “break-down the food material outside the body and then absorb it”. Reason (R) is biologically true (saprophytic nutrition is a specific type of external digestion often associated with decaying matter), but the source does not use the term “saprophytic” or explicitly state that their external digestion enables them to thrive on “decaying organic matter”. While R is true, it introduces information not directly supported or explained by the provided text as the reason for A. Therefore, it is not the correct explanation.


11. Question:

Assertion (A): The availability of food material is a crucial factor influencing an organism’s heterotrophic nutritional strategy.

Reason (R): The method of obtaining food, such as grazing or hunting, is irrelevant once the food material is available.

Answer: (C) Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. The source explicitly states that “The form of nutrition differs depending on the type and availability of food material”. Reason (R) is false. The source also states that “how it is obtained by the organism” is a factor influencing the form of nutrition, and uses examples like a cow (grazing) and a lion (hunting) to illustrate this point. Therefore, the method of obtaining food is highly relevant.

Answer: (C)

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. Your chapter says, “The form of nutrition differs depending on the type and availability of food material”. Reason (R) is false. The source also states that “how it is obtained by the organism” is a factor influencing the form of nutrition, and uses examples like a cow (grazing) and a lion (hunting) to illustrate this point. Therefore, the method of obtaining food is highly relevant.


12. Question:

Assertion (A): Leeches are heterotrophs that consume whole blood meals and digest them internally, similar to a lion eating a deer.

Reason (R): The parasitic strategy allows organisms to obtain nutrition from plants or animals without causing the host’s death.

Answer: (D) Explanation: Assertion (A) is false. Leeches are listed as examples of organisms employing a “parasitic nutritive strategy”, which is distinct from taking in “whole material” like a lion. Parasites derive nutrition “without killing them”, which implies a non-consumptive relationship of the host’s entire body. Reason (R) is true. This statement directly defines the parasitic nutritive strategy as given in the source.

Answer: (D)

Explanation: Assertion (A) is false. Leeches are listed as examples of organisms employing a “parasitic nutritive strategy”, which is distinct from taking in “whole material” like a lion. Parasites derive nutrition “without killing them”, which implies a non-consumptive relationship with the host’s entire body. Reason (R) is true. This statement directly defines the parasitic nutritive strategy as given in the textbook of science class 10 CBSE.


13. Question:

Assertion (A): Heterotrophic nutrition encompasses a wide array of strategies to acquire and utilize food.

Reason (R): The specific strategy employed by an organism is intricately linked to its environmental adaptations and the nature of its food source.

Answer: (A) Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. The source states, “There is a range of strategies by which the food is taken in and used by the organism”. Reason (R) is also true, as “Each organism is adapted to its environment. The form of nutrition differs depending on the type and availability of food material as well as how it is obtained by the organism”. Reason (R) directly explains the broad “range of strategies” mentioned in Assertion (A) by highlighting the underlying adaptive and environmental influences.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. The Chapter states, “There is a range of strategies by which the food is taken in and used by the organism”. Reason (R) is also true, as “Each organism is adapted to its environment. The form of nutrition differs depending on the type and availability of food material as well as how it is obtained by the organism”. Reason (R) directly explains the broad “range of strategies” mentioned in Assertion (A) by highlighting the underlying adaptive and environmental influences.


14. Question:

Assertion (A): Organisms that absorb pre-digested food material do not require initial internal enzymatic breakdown of complex substances.

Reason (R): Fungi like bread moulds secrete enzymes externally to break down complex food into simpler absorbable forms.

Answer: (B) Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. The source explains that these organisms “break-down the food material outside the body and then absorb it”, meaning the initial complex breakdown happens externally, not internally. Reason (R) is true, as the “break-down” mentioned in the source for fungi (like bread moulds) implies the use of enzymes for external digestion. However, Reason (R) describes how the external digestion occurs, which leads to Assertion (A), but it doesn’t explain why these organisms evolved this particular strategy or why they do not require internal enzymatic breakdown from the onset of ingestion.


15. Question:

Assertion (A): Organisms that take in whole food material rely on their body design and functioning for internal breakdown.

Reason (R): This internal breakdown strategy is exclusively found in organisms that consume animal sources.

Answer: (C) Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. The source explicitly states, “Others take in whole material and break it down inside their bodies. What can be taken in and broken down depends on the body design and functioning”. Reason (R) is false. The source gives a cow (which eats grass, a plant source) as an example of an organism whose nutritive apparatus handles a specific food type, implying it takes in whole material for internal breakdown, thus not exclusively for animal sources.


16. Question:

Assertion (A): Yeast directly ingests whole food particles and breaks them down inside its cells.

Reason (R): Yeast is a fungus that obtains nutrition by breaking down food material outside its body and then absorbing it.

Answer: (D) Explanation: Assertion (A) is false. Yeast is an example of a fungus, and fungi are described as organisms that “break-down the food material outside the body and then absorb it”, not ingest whole material and break it down internally. Reason (R) is true. This statement accurately describes the nutritional strategy of yeast as a fungus according to the source.


17. Question:

Assertion (A): The body design and functioning of an organism are critical determinants of its ability to take in and process food.

Reason (R): The range of materials an organism can utilize as food directly depends on its inherent physiological and anatomical adaptations.

Answer: (A) Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. The source states, “What can be taken in and broken down depends on the body design and functioning”. Reason (R) is also true. The “body design and functioning” represent the organism’s physiological and anatomical adaptations, and these directly determine “what can be taken in and broken down,” which refers to the range of food materials. Reason (R) clarifies and explains Assertion (A) by using slightly different terminology that conveys the same meaning.


18. Question:

Assertion (A): Organisms like bread moulds and mushrooms perform extracellular digestion.

Reason (R): Their method of nutrient acquisition involves releasing digestive enzymes onto the food material before absorption.

Answer: (B) Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. The source describes fungi (including bread moulds and mushrooms) as organisms that “break-down the food material outside the body and then absorb it”. “Extracellular digestion” is the scientific term for this process. Reason (R) is also true, as the “break-down” of food material outside the body necessarily involves the release of digestive enzymes. However, Reason (R) describes the mechanism by which extracellular digestion (Assertion A) occurs, rather than providing the ultimate reason or explanation for why they employ this specific nutritional strategy.


19. Question:


Assertion (A): The type of food material, such as stationary or mobile, directly impacts the design of an organism’s nutritive apparatus.

Reason (R): The cow and the lion have identical nutritive apparatuses because they are both heterotrophs.

Answer: (C) Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. The source explicitly states, “whether the food source is stationary (such as grass) or mobile (such as a deer), would allow for differences in how the food is accessed and what is the nutritive apparatus used by a cow and a lion”. Reason (R) is false. The source directly contradicts this by mentioning “differences in…the nutritive apparatus used by a cow and a lion” based on their food sources, implying their apparatuses are not identical.


20. Question:

Assertion (A): The primary advantage of taking in whole food material is that it requires no prior external processing by the organism itself.

Reason (R): Organisms such as yeast employ a strategy where food material is broken down externally before absorption.

Answer: (D) Explanation: Assertion (A) is false. The source describes “take in whole material and break it down inside their bodies” but does not discuss “primary advantages” or imply a comparative simplicity. Reason (R) is true. Yeast is a fungus, and the source explicitly states that fungi “break-down the food material outside the body and then absorb it”.


21. Question:

Assertion (A): The existence of diverse heterotrophic nutritional strategies highlights the principle of adaptation in biology.

Reason (R): Each organism’s unique way of obtaining and utilizing food is a direct result of its specific adaptation to its environment.

Answer: (A) Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. The source begins by stating “Each organism is adapted to its environment” and then discusses the “range of strategies” for nutrition, indicating a direct link. Reason (R) is also true, as the source links the “form of nutrition” to environmental factors and how food is obtained, which are all aspects of adaptation. Reason (R) precisely explains why diverse strategies (Assertion A) are observed, as they are outcomes of specific environmental adaptations.


22. Question:

Assertion (A): Tape-worms obtain nutrition by drawing directly from the host’s digested nutrients without consuming whole material.

Reason (R): The parasitic strategy, as seen in tape-worms, focuses on sustaining the host for long-term nutrient supply.

Answer: (B)
Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. Tape-worms are listed as examples of parasitic organisms, which “derive nutrition from plants or animals without killing them”. This implies a direct absorption from the host’s systems rather than consuming “whole material” in the manner of other heterotrophs. Reason (R) is also true. The characteristic of “without killing them” implies a strategy for long-term nutrient supply from a living host. However, Reason (R) explains the purpose or consequence of the parasitic strategy, not specifically how tapeworms obtain nutrients or why they don’t consume whole material (Assertion A).


23. Question:

Assertion (A): The specific characteristics of how food is obtained by an organism play a significant role in defining its nutritional strategy.

Reason (R): The only distinction in obtaining food highlighted by the source is whether the food source is stationary or mobile.

Answer: (C) Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. The source clearly states that “how it is obtained by the organism” is a factor influencing the form of nutrition, and contrasts strategies like external breakdown versus taking in whole material. Reason (R) is false. While the stationary/mobile distinction is an example of “how it is obtained”, the source also describes other key distinctions like breaking down food outside the body versus taking it in whole, which are also ways “how it is obtained.” Therefore, it’s not the only distinction mentioned.


24. Question:

Assertion (A): Ticks are organisms that break down food material outside their bodies and then absorb it.

Reason (R): Ticks are parasitic organisms that derive nutrition from animals without killing them.

Answer: (D) Explanation: Assertion (A) is false. Ticks are listed as examples of parasitic organisms. The source differentiates parasitic organisms from fungi which “break-down the food material outside the body and then absorb it”. Ticks are ectoparasites that feed on blood, which they take in internally, not externally digest. Reason (R) is true. This statement correctly describes ticks and the parasitic strategy as defined in the source.


25. Question:

Assertion (A): The survival of a parasitic organism is often dependent on the continued survival of its host.

Reason (R): Parasitic nutritive strategy is characterized by deriving nutrition from plants or animals without killing them.

Answer: (A) Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. This is a logical and fundamental implication of the parasitic strategy as defined in the source. If the host is killed, the parasite loses its source of nutrition and habitat. Reason (R) is true. This is the direct definition of parasitic nutrition provided in the source. Reason (R) explains Assertion (A) because the defining characteristic of not killing the host directly implies a reliance on the host’s continued existence for the parasite’s own survival.


For each question, the options are:

  • (A) Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of Assertion (A).
  • (B) Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion (A).
  • (C) Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
  • (D) Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.

Assertion (A): The alimentary canal has various specialized regions to perform distinct functions.

Reason (R): Food must be processed into small particles of the same texture to ensure its smooth passage through the soft lining of the canal.

Answer: (B)

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true statements. The alimentary canal indeed has specialized parts for different functions. Food also needs to be processed for smooth passage. However, the reason (R) describes a general requirement for food processing and passage, not the specific reason for the specialization of different regions. The specialization allows for complex chemical breakdown and absorption at different stages, which goes beyond just preparing food for smooth passage.

Assertion (A): Saliva is primarily responsible for the initial chemical digestion of proteins in the mouth.

Reason (R): Saliva contains an enzyme called salivary amylase that breaks down starch into simple sugar.

Answer: (D)

Explanation: The assertion (A) is false because salivary amylase, an enzyme present in saliva, breaks down starch, not proteins, into simple sugar. The reason (R) is true as it correctly identifies the enzyme in saliva and its function in starch digestion.

Assertion (A): Peristaltic movements are crucial for the regulated movement of food along the digestive tube.

Reason (R): These movements are characterized by the rhythmic contractions of the muscles lining the alimentary canal.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the assertion (A) and the reason (R) are true. The reason (R) accurately explains how peristaltic movements, through rhythmic muscular contractions, achieve the regulated forward propulsion of food along the digestive tract.

Assertion (A): The muscular walls of the stomach play a vital role in thoroughly mixing food with digestive juices.

Reason (R): This mixing ensures that the acidic medium, created by hydrochloric acid, reaches all food particles, thereby facilitating the efficient action of the enzyme pepsin.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the assertion (A) and the reason (R) are true. The muscular contractions of the stomach walls facilitate mixing, and this mixing is essential to ensure that the acidic environment created by HCl effectively prepares the food for pepsin’s protein-digesting action.

Assertion (A): Mucus secreted in the stomach protects its inner lining from the strong action of hydrochloric acid.

Reason (R): Gastric glands present in the stomach wall are responsible for releasing hydrochloric acid, pepsin, and mucus.

Answer: (B)

Explanation: Both the assertion (A) and the reason (R) are true statements. However, the reason (R) states what is released by gastric glands, not why mucus protects the stomach lining or how it does so. While related to the stomach’s function, R does not directly explain A.

Assertion (A): The small intestine is designated as the primary site for the complete digestion of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Reason (R): It receives essential secretions from both the liver (bile juice) and the pancreas (pancreatic juice), which are vital for this comprehensive digestive process.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the assertion (A) and the reason (R) are true. The reason (R) directly explains why the small intestine is capable of complete digestion, by highlighting its receipt of crucial digestive secretions from the liver and pancreas that contain the necessary enzymes and conditions.

Assertion (A): Herbivores, such as those eating grass, require a significantly longer small intestine.

Reason (R): Meat is comparatively easier to digest, which is why carnivores like tigers possess a shorter small intestine.

Answer: (B)

Explanation: Both the assertion (A) and the reason (R) are true statements. Herbivores need a longer intestine to digest cellulose, while meat is easier to digest for carnivores. While both statements relate to the length of the small intestine based on diet, the reason (R) primarily explains the length in carnivores, rather than directly explaining why herbivores specifically need a longer one, although the underlying principle of digestibility is shared.

Assertion (A): Bile juice, secreted by the liver, makes the acidic food arriving from the stomach alkaline.

Reason (R): This alkalinity is a necessary condition for the pancreatic enzymes to act effectively on the food.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the assertion (A) and the reason (R) are true. The reason (R) provides the crucial explanation for why bile juice alkalinizes the food, enabling the pancreatic enzymes to function optimally in the small intestine.

Assertion (A): Bile salts are critical for increasing the efficiency of enzyme action on fats in the small intestine.

Reason (R): They achieve this by breaking down large fat globules into smaller ones, a process similar to the emulsifying action of soaps.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the assertion (A) and the reason (R) are true. The reason (R) accurately describes the mechanism (emulsification) by which bile salts increase the surface area of fats, thereby enhancing the efficiency of fat-digesting enzymes.

Assertion (A): The enzymes present in the small intestine walls finally convert complex carbohydrates into glucose

Reason (R): This conversion is primarily carried out by the enzyme lipase found in pancreatic juice

Answer: (C)

Explanation: The assertion (A) is true; intestinal juice enzymes do convert complex carbohydrates into glucose. However, the reason (R) is false. Lipase is an enzyme that breaks down fats, not carbohydrates, and is found in pancreatic juice for emulsified fat breakdown.

Assertion (A): The inner lining of the small intestine features numerous finger-like projections called villi, which dramatically increase the surface area for absorption.

Reason (R): The villi are richly supplied with blood vessels that transport the absorbed food to every cell of the body.

Answer: (B)

Explanation: Both the assertion (A) and the reason (R) are true statements. The villi’s finger-like shape is what increases the surface area for absorption. While they are richly supplied with blood vessels, this describes how absorbed nutrients are transported, not why the villi increase surface area. The “finger-like projections” themselves are the reason for increased surface area.

Assertion (A): Unabsorbed food material from the small intestine is directed into the large intestine.

Reason (R): The primary function of the large intestine’s wall is to absorb additional water from this material.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the assertion (A) and the reason (R) are true. The reason (R) correctly explains a key role of the large intestine in processing the unabsorbed material received from the small intestine, specifically water absorption.

Assertion (A): The exit of waste material from the body is precisely regulated by the anal sphincter.

Reason (R): This sphincter muscle also controls the release of food in small amounts from the stomach into the small intestine.

Assertion (A): For food to be effectively absorbed from the alimentary canal, it must be broken down into smaller molecules.

Reason (R): This breakdown into smaller molecules is primarily accomplished through the crushing action of teeth in the mouth.

Assertion (A): The muscular tongue efficiently mixes food thoroughly with saliva during chewing.

Reason (R): Saliva contains salivary amylase, an enzyme that initiates the digestion of starch.

Assertion (A): The stomach expands upon receiving food, and its muscular walls actively mix the contents.

Reason (R): This mechanical mixing is critical to ensure that hydrochloric acid and pepsin effectively interact with the food for proper protein digestion.

Assertion (A): The phenomenon of the mouth “watering” when we desire food is exclusively due to the secretion of pure water for wetting.

Reason (R): This fluid, known as saliva, is secreted by the salivary glands and also contains digestive enzymes.

Assertion (A): The small intestine’s extensive coiling allows it to occupy a compact space despite being the longest part of the alimentary canal.

Reason (R): This compact arrangement is necessary because the small intestine is the primary site where absorbed food is transported to every cell of the body for utilization.

Assertion (A): Digested food absorbed by the walls of the small intestine is transported to every cell of the body via blood vessels.

Reason (R): The absorbed food is utilized by body cells solely for the purpose of building new tissues and repairing old ones.

Assertion (A): Enzymes are biological catalysts crucial for breaking down complex food molecules into smaller, absorbable units.

Reason (R): Enzymes generally function by creating an acidic medium, which then facilitates specific chemical reactions.

Assertion (A): The food entering the small intestine from the stomach is alkaline due to the action of bile juice.

Reason (R): The acidic nature of food leaving the stomach is due to the presence of protein-digesting enzymes.

Assertion (A): The food coming from the stomach is acidic and needs to be made alkaline for pancreatic enzymes to act.

Reason (R): Bile juice from the liver makes this acidic food alkaline.

Assertion (A): Pancreatic juice is crucial as it contains a variety of enzymes vital for digestion.

Reason (R): It specifically contains trypsin for protein digestion and lipase for breaking down emulsified fats.

Assertion (A): Because the lining of the alimentary canal is soft, food is wetted to ensure its smooth passage.

Reason (R): This wetting process, along with crushing, also ensures that the food particles are of the same texture.

Assertion (A): Gastric glands release a protein-digesting enzyme called pepsin.

Reason (R): Pepsin functions most effectively in an alkaline environment within the stomach.

Assertion (A): The entire process of digestion involves breaking down complex food molecules into much smaller ones.

Reason (R): This molecular breakdown is essential because the absorbed smaller molecules are subsequently utilized by the body’s cells for obtaining energy, building new tissues, and repairing old ones.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both the assertion (A) and the reason (R) are true. The reason (R) provides a comprehensive explanation for the ultimate purpose and utility of breaking down complex food molecules, linking it directly to cellular function and body maintenance.


General Options for Assertion-Reason Questions:

  • A. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of Assertion (A).
  • B. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of Assertion (A).
  • C. Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
  • D. Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.

Assertion (A): The breakdown of glucose into pyruvate is the initial step common to all forms of cellular respiration.

Reason (R): This initial step takes place in the cytoplasm, independent of oxygen.

Answer: A

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true because the source states that “In all cases, the first step is the break-down of glucose… into pyruvate”. Reason (R) is also true as “This process takes place in the cytoplasm” and “some use other pathways that do not involve oxygen” after this initial step, implying its independence from oxygen at this stage. Reason (R) correctly explains why this first step is universal, as it occurs in a cellular compartment (cytoplasm) that is common to all respiration types and does not require oxygen.

Answer: (A)

Assertion (A) is true because the source states that “In all cases, the first step is the break-down of glucose… into pyruvate”. Reason (R) is also true as “This process takes place in the cytoplasm” and “some use other pathways that do not involve oxygen” after this initial step, implying its independence from oxygen at this stage. Reason (R) correctly explains why this first step is universal, as it occurs in a cellular compartment (cytoplasm) that is common to all respiration types and does not require oxygen.

Assertion (A): Diverse organisms break down food material for energy in different ways.

Reason (R): Some organisms use oxygen, while others employ pathways that do not involve oxygen.

Answer: B

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true, as the source mentions, “Diverse organisms do this in different ways”. Reason (R) is also true, stating that “some use oxygen to break-down glucose completely… some use other pathways that do not involve oxygen”. However, Reason (R) describes the diversity rather than explaining the fundamental reason for the existence of diverse pathways (e.g., evolutionary adaptation or environmental niches). Therefore, both are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.

Answer: (B)

Assertion (A) is true, as the source mentions, “Diverse organisms do this in different ways”. Reason (R) is also true, stating that “some use oxygen to break-down glucose completely… some use other pathways that do not involve oxygen”. However, Reason (R) describes the diversity rather than explaining the fundamental reason for the existence of diverse pathways (e.g., evolutionary adaptation or environmental niches). Therefore, both are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.

Assertion (A): The energy released in aerobic respiration is significantly greater than in anaerobic respiration.

Reason (R): Aerobic respiration produces lactic acid as a byproduct, which is less energy-efficient.

Answer: C

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true because the source states, “The release of energy in this aerobic process is a lot greater than in the anaerobic process”. Reason (R) is false. Lactic acid is a product of anaerobic respiration in muscle cells, not aerobic respiration. Aerobic respiration breaks down pyruvate to carbon dioxide and water.

Assertion (A): The build-up of ethanol in human muscle cells during sudden activity causes cramps.

Reason (R): Lactic acid accumulation in muscle cells occurs when there is a lack of oxygen.

Answer: D

Explanation: Assertion (A) is false. The source clearly states that “This build-up of lactic acid in our muscles during sudden activity causes cramps”. Ethanol production occurs in yeast during fermentation, not in human muscle cells. Reason (R) is true, as the source explains, “when there is a lack of oxygen in our muscle cells… the pyruvate is converted into lactic acid”.

Assertion (A): ATP is used immediately to fuel various endothermic reactions within a cell.

Reason (R): The energy released during cellular respiration is first used to synthesize ATP, which then provides a fixed amount of energy upon breakdown for cellular activities.

Answer: A

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true, as ATP is “used to fuel all other activities in the cell” and “can drive the endothermic reactions”. Reason (R) is also true, stating that “The energy released during cellular respiration is immediately used to synthesise a molecule called ATP” and “ATP is broken down giving rise to a fixed amount of energy”. Reason (R) comprehensively explains how ATP functions as the cell’s energy currency to drive endothermic reactions.

Assertion (A): Plants exchange gases like carbon dioxide and oxygen through stomata, and these gases diffuse through large inter-cellular spaces.

Reason (R): The direction of gas diffusion in plants depends upon the environmental conditions and the requirements of the plant.

Answer: B

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true, as plants “exchange gases through stomata, and the large inter-cellular spaces ensure that all cells are in contact with air”. Reason (R) is also true, stating, “The direction of diffusion depends upon the environmental conditions and the requirements of the plant”. However, Reason (R) explains what influences the direction of diffusion, not how the gases are exchanged through the stated structures. Therefore, both are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.

Assertion (A): At night, plants primarily release carbon dioxide as their major gas exchange activity.

Reason (R): During the night, photosynthesis is the dominant process, consuming atmospheric carbon dioxide.

Answer: C

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true, as the source specifies, “At night, when there is no photosynthesis occurring, CO2 elimination is the major exchange activity going on”. Reason (R) is false. At night, “there is no photosynthesis occurring”, meaning CO2 is not consumed by photosynthesis.

Assertion (A): Aquatic organisms typically have a slower breathing rate than terrestrial organisms.

Reason (R): The amount of oxygen dissolved in water is fairly low compared to the amount of oxygen in the air.

Answer: D

Explanation: Assertion (A) is false. The source states, “the rate of breathing in aquatic organisms is much faster than that seen in terrestrial organisms”. Reason (R) is true, as “the amount of dissolved oxygen is fairly low compared to the amount of oxygen in the air”.

Assertion (A): The gas exchange surface in terrestrial animals is usually placed within the body.

Reason (R): This surface is very fine and delicate, requiring protection from the external environment.

Answer: A

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true, as the source indicates the surface “is usually placed within the body”. Reason (R) is also true, explaining that “this surface is very fine and delicate. In order to protect this surface, it is usually placed within the body”. Reason (R) is the direct explanation for Assertion (A).

Assertion (A): Human nostrils are lined with fine hairs and mucus to filter incoming air.

Reason (R): Rings of cartilage are present in the throat to ensure the air-passage does not collapse.

Answer: B

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true, as “The air passing through the nostrils is filtered by fine hairs that line the passage. The passage is also lined with mucus which helps in this process”. Reason (R) is also true, stating, “Rings of cartilage are present in the throat. These ensure that the air-passage does not collapse”. While both statements are true facts about the human respiratory system, Reason (R) describes a function in the throat, which does not explain the function of hairs and mucus in the nostrils.

Assertion (A): The alveoli provide a large surface area for efficient gas exchange in the lungs.

Reason (R): Alveolar walls are thick and lack extensive blood vessels to prevent excessive fluid loss.

Answer: C

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true, as “The alveoli provide a surface where the exchange of gases can take place” and their balloon-like structure contributes to a large surface area. Reason (R) is false. The source explicitly states that “The walls of the alveoli contain an extensive network of blood-vessels” and implies they are delicate for exchange. They are not described as thick, nor do they lack blood vessels for fluid prevention; rather, they are thin and highly vascularized for efficient exchange.

Assertion (A): During human inhalation, the diaphragm lifts, and the ribs flatten.

Reason (R): These actions cause the chest cavity to become larger, leading to air being sucked into the lungs.

Answer: D

Explanation: Assertion (A) is false. During inhalation, “we lift our ribs and flatten our diaphragm”. Reason (R) is true, as “the chest cavity becomes larger as a result. Because of this, air is sucked into the lungs and fills the expanded alveoli”.

Assertion (A): Lungs always contain a residual volume of air during the breathing cycle.

Reason (R): This residual volume ensures sufficient time for oxygen to be absorbed and carbon dioxide to be released.

Answer: A

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true, as “the lungs always contain a residual volume of air”. Reason (R) is also true, stating that this volume is present “so that there is sufficient time for oxygen to be absorbed and for the carbon dioxide to be released”. Reason (R) provides the direct explanation for the presence of residual volume.

Assertion (A): Respiratory pigments are essential for efficient oxygen delivery in large animals.

Reason (R): Haemoglobin, the respiratory pigment in human beings, has a very high affinity for oxygen.

Answer: B

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true because “When the body size of animals is large, the diffusion pressure alone cannot take care of oxygen delivery… Instead, respiratory pigments take up oxygen”. Reason (R) is also true about haemoglobin’s affinity for oxygen. However, Reason (R) describes a specific property of one pigment, not the general necessity of pigments for large animals, which is due to diffusion limitations. Therefore, both are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.

Assertion (A): Haemoglobin helps in the transport of oxygen from the lungs to the body tissues.

Reason (R): Carbon dioxide is primarily transported to the lungs bound to haemoglobin.

Answer: C

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true, as “respiratory pigments take up oxygen from the air in the lungs and carry it to tissues… In human beings, the respiratory pigment is haemoglobin which has a very high affinity for oxygen”. Reason (R) is false. The source states, “Carbon dioxide is more soluble in water than oxygen is and hence is mostly transported in the dissolved form in our blood”.

Assertion (A): All cells in a plant directly exchange gases with the outside air through stomata.

Reason (R): Large inter-cellular spaces ensure that all cells are in contact with air for gas exchange.

Answer: D

Explanation: Assertion (A) is false. While plants exchange gases through stomata, the gases then move through “large inter-cellular spaces” to reach “all cells”. Cells don’t directly contact outside air; they contact the air within these spaces. Reason (R) is true and accurately describes the role of intercellular spaces.

Assertion (A): Oxygen is required for the complete breakdown of glucose into carbon dioxide and water.

Reason (R): This process, known as aerobic respiration, takes place in the mitochondria.

Answer: A

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true, as the source states, “some use oxygen to break-down glucose completely into carbon dioxide and water”. Reason (R) is also true, specifying that “Break-down of pyruvate using oxygen takes place in the mitochondria. This process… is called aerobic respiration”. Reason (R) explains where this oxygen-dependent complete breakdown occurs, directly supporting A.

Assertion (A): Fishes use gills to take up oxygen dissolved in water.

Reason (R): The rate of breathing in aquatic organisms is much faster than that seen in terrestrial organisms.

Answer: B

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true, as “Fishes take in water through their mouths and force it past the gills where the dissolved oxygen is taken up by blood”. Reason (R) is also true, as “the rate of breathing in aquatic organisms is much faster than that seen in terrestrial organisms”. However, Reason (R) describes a characteristic of aquatic respiration, not how gills function to take up oxygen. Therefore, both are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.

Assertion (A): Plants only release oxygen during daylight hours.

Reason (R): During the day, carbon dioxide elimination is the major exchange activity in plants.

Answer: C

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true, as “During the day, CO2 generated during respiration is used up for photosynthesis, hence there is no CO2 release. Instead, oxygen release is the major event at this time”. Reason (R) is false. Carbon dioxide elimination is the major exchange activity at night, not during the day.

Assertion (A): Respiration is the process of taking in food material to provide energy.

Reason (R): The food material taken in during the process of nutrition is used in cells to provide energy for various life processes.

Answer: D

Explanation: Assertion (A) is false. Respiration is the process where “food material taken in during the process of nutrition is used in cells to provide energy”. Nutrition is the process of taking in food. Reason (R) is true and correctly describes the role of food material in respiration.

Assertion (A): The alveoli contain an extensive network of blood-vessels.

Reason (R): This extensive network provides a large surface area for efficient exchange of gases between the air in the alveoli and the blood.

Answer: A

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true, as “The walls of the alveoli contain an extensive network of blood-vessels”. Reason (R) is also true and explains the significance of this network, stating that the alveoli “provide a surface where the exchange of gases can take place” with blood. The extensive network maximizes the contact for efficient gas exchange.

Assertion (A): The structure of respiratory organs in terrestrial animals increases surface area.

Reason (R): This increased surface area is necessary because oxygen exchange has to take place across a very fine and delicate surface.

Answer: B

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true, as “All these organs have a structure that increases the surface area which is in contact with the oxygen-rich atmosphere”. Reason (R) is also true, as “the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide has to take place across this surface, this surface is very fine and delicate”. While the delicacy is a characteristic of the surface, it doesn’t directly explain why the surface area needs to be increased; rather, the large surface area compensates for the delicate and often internal nature of the surface to facilitate sufficient gas exchange.

Assertion (A): Diffusion alone is insufficient for oxygen delivery to all parts of a large animal’s body.

Reason (R): This is because respiratory pigments decrease the efficiency of oxygen transport.

Answer: C

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true, as “When the body size of animals is large, the diffusion pressure alone cannot take care of oxygen delivery to all parts of the body”. Reason (R) is false. Respiratory pigments like haemoglobin increase the efficiency of oxygen transport, as they “take up oxygen… and carry it to tissues which are deficient in oxygen before releasing it”.

Assertion (A): Carbon dioxide is transported in human blood only bound to haemoglobin.

Reason (R): Carbon dioxide is more soluble in water than oxygen and is mostly transported in the dissolved form in our blood.

Answer: D

Explanation: Assertion (A) is false. The source states that “Carbon dioxide is more soluble in water than oxygen is and hence is mostly transported in the dissolved form in our blood”. Reason (R) is true and directly supports the method of CO2 transport.

Assertion (A): The expanded alveoli during inhalation are crucial for efficient gas exchange.

Reason (R): Air is sucked into the lungs, filling the expanded alveoli, allowing blood to release CO2 and take up O2.

Answer: A

Explanation: Assertion (A) is true, as the expansion of alveoli allows them to fill with air, providing the surface for gas exchange. Reason (R) is also true, explaining the mechanics of how the alveoli expand and how gases are exchanged once filled: “air is sucked into the lungs and fills the expanded alveoli. The blood brings carbon dioxide… for release… and the oxygen in the alveolar air is taken up by blood”. Reason (R) directly explains the mechanism facilitated by the expanded alveoli for gas exchange.

Options for Assertion and Reason Questions: (A) Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of Assertion (A). (B) Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion (A). (C) Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false. (D) Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.


Assertion (A): The muscular walls of ventricles are thicker than those of the atria.

Reason (R): Ventricles have to pump blood into various organs, requiring more force than the atria, which primarily collect blood.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Both statements are true and directly supported by the source. The ventricles, especially the left ventricle, need to generate significant pressure to pump blood to the entire body, or to the lungs, hence their thicker, more muscular walls compared to the atria, which only collect blood and pump it to the ventricles.

  1. Assertion (A): The heart has different chambers to prevent oxygen-rich blood from mixing with blood containing carbon dioxide.

    Reason (R): Mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood streams allows for a highly efficient supply of oxygen to the body.
    • Answer: (C)
    • Explanation: Assertion (A) is true. The separation of chambers prevents mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood. Reason (R) is false; the source states that separation (not mixing) allows for a highly efficient supply of oxygen. Mixing would reduce efficiency.
  1. Assertion (A): In fishes, blood goes through the heart only once during one cycle of passage through the body.

    Reason (R): Fishes have only two chambers in their hearts, and blood is pumped directly from the gills to the rest of the body after oxygenation.
    • Answer: (A)
    • Explanation: Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true. The two-chambered heart in fishes pumps blood to the gills for oxygenation, and then the oxygenated blood flows directly to the body, completing a single circuit through the heart, which is known as single circulation. Reason (R) accurately explains this process.
  1. Assertion (A): Arteries have thick, elastic walls.

    Reason (R): They collect blood from different organs and bring it back to the heart where the pressure is no longer high.
    • Answer: (C)
    • Explanation: Assertion (A) is true; arteries do have thick, elastic walls because blood emerges from the heart under high pressure. However, Reason (R) is false; veins, not arteries, collect blood from different organs and bring it back to the heart, and they do so when the blood is no longer under high pressure.
  1. Assertion (A): Platelet cells help to clot blood at injury points.

    Reason (R): This clotting process is primarily to ensure that blood flows only in one direction in veins.
    • Answer: (C)
    • Explanation: Assertion (A) is true; platelet cells circulate and plug leaks by helping blood to clot at injury points. Reason (R) is false; the purpose of clotting is to minimize blood loss and prevent a loss of pressure from the system. Valves, not platelets, ensure that blood flows only in one direction in veins.
  1. Assertion (A): Lymph is similar to the plasma of blood but is colourless and contains less protein.

    Reason (R): Lymph drains into lymphatic capillaries from intercellular spaces, and it carries digested and absorbed fat from the intestine.
    • Answer: (B)
    • Explanation: Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true statements about lymph. However, Reason (R) describes some functions and drainage pathways of lymph, while Assertion (A) describes its composition. Reason (R) does not explain why lymph has the specific composition described in Assertion (A) (i.e., why it’s colourless or has less protein).
  1. Assertion (A): Exchange of material between the blood and surrounding cells primarily occurs across the walls of capillaries.

    Reason (R): Capillary walls are one-cell thick, facilitating efficient diffusion of substances.
    • Answer: (A)
    • Explanation: Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true. The very thin, one-cell thick walls of capillaries are specifically designed to allow for the efficient exchange of materials between the blood and the tissues, making Reason (R) the correct explanation for Assertion (A).
  1. Assertion (A): Plasma transports oxygen in dissolved form throughout the body.

    Reason (R): Red blood corpuscles are the primary carriers of oxygen in the blood.
    • Answer: (D)
    • Explanation: Assertion (A) is false; the source explicitly states that “Oxygen is carried by the red blood corpuscles”. Plasma transports food, carbon dioxide, and nitrogenous wastes in dissolved form. Reason (R) is true; oxygen is indeed carried by red blood corpuscles.
  1. Assertion (A): Vertebrates, other than fish, exhibit double circulation where blood goes through the heart twice in one cycle.

    Reason (R): This is useful in animals that have high energy needs, such as birds and mammals, as it allows for a highly efficient supply of oxygen.
    • Answer: (A)
    • Explanation: Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true. Double circulation ensures efficient oxygen supply. The separation of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood, which is part of double circulation, enables this efficiency, making it crucial for animals with high energy demands like birds and mammals to maintain body temperature.
  1. Assertion (A): Valves in the heart ensure that blood does not flow backwards when the atria or ventricles contract.

    Reason (R): Veins also possess valves that ensure blood flows only in one direction, back towards the heart.
    • Answer: (B)
    • Explanation: Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true statements. Valves prevent backflow in both the heart and veins. However, Reason (R) describes the function of valves in veins and does not explain why valves are necessary in the heart. These are two distinct but related facts about valves in the circulatory system.
  1. Assertion (A): Veins do not require thick walls.

    Reason (R): By the time blood reaches the veins from various organs, it is no longer under the high pressure exerted by the heart’s pumping action.
    • Answer: (A)
    • Explanation: Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true. The absence of high pressure in the blood as it returns to the heart is precisely why veins do not need the thick walls characteristic of arteries, which carry blood under high pressure. Reason (R) correctly explains Assertion (A).
  1. Assertion (A): Amphibians and many reptiles have three-chambered hearts and can tolerate some mixing of oxygenated and de-oxygenated blood streams.

    Reason (R): These animals constantly use energy to maintain a constant body temperature, requiring the most efficient oxygen supply.
    • Answer: (C)
    • Explanation: Assertion (A) is true; amphibians and many reptiles have three-chambered hearts and tolerate some mixing. Reason (R) is false; the source states that such animals do not use energy to maintain their body temperature, and their body temperature depends on the environment. The high energy need and constant body temperature maintenance are characteristic of birds and mammals, which require highly efficient oxygen supply due to better separation of blood.
  1. Assertion (A): The body needs a pumping organ, a network of tubes, and a system for repair to circulate blood effectively.

    Reason (R): Blood serves to transport essential substances like food, oxygen, and waste materials throughout our bodies.
    • Answer: (A)
    • Explanation: Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true. The vital role of blood in transporting substances (R) directly necessitates the components of the circulatory system described in Assertion (A) – a pump (heart), tubes (blood vessels), and a repair mechanism (platelets).
  1. Assertion (A): A leakage from the circulatory system can lead to a significant loss of pressure.

    Reason (R): Platelet cells actively circulate to plug these leaks, thereby preventing a reduction in the efficiency of the pumping system.
    • Answer: (B)
    • Explanation: Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true statements. Leakage does cause a loss of pressure, and platelets do repair leaks to maintain efficiency. However, Reason (R) describes the solution or response to leakage and pressure loss, not why leakage causes pressure loss in the first place. The pressure loss is a physical consequence of the leak.
  1. Assertion (A): Blood is classified as a fluid connective tissue.

    Reason (R): It consists of a fluid medium called plasma in which various cells are suspended, enabling it to connect and transport substances throughout the body.
    • Answer: (A)
    • Explanation: Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true. Reason (R) provides the key characteristics (fluid medium, suspended cells, transport function) that support the classification of blood as a fluid connective tissue, thereby correctly explaining Assertion (A).
  1. Assertion (A): Oxygen-rich blood from the lungs first enters the thin-walled upper chamber on the left side of the heart.

    Reason (R): The right ventricle pumps de-oxygenated blood to the lungs for oxygenation.
    • Answer: (B)
    • Explanation: Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true. Oxygen-rich blood from the lungs enters the left atrium. De-oxygenated blood from the right ventricle is indeed pumped to the lungs for oxygenation. However, Reason (R) describes the pathway of deoxygenated blood to the lungs, which is a separate part of the circulatory cycle, and does not explain why oxygen-rich blood enters the left atrium first.
  1. Assertion (A): Lymph is formed in the intercellular spaces in tissues.

    Reason (R): Lymph plays a crucial role in carrying digested and absorbed fat from the intestine to the blood.
    • Answer: (B)
    • Explanation: Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true. Lymph forms from plasma, proteins, and blood cells escaping into intercellular spaces. It also transports absorbed fats. However, Reason (R) describes a specific function of lymph and does not explain how or why it is formed in the intercellular spaces.
  1. Assertion (A): The human heart is a muscular organ that is approximately the size of our fist.

    Reason (R): This specific size enables the heart to transport carbon dioxide effectively throughout the body.
    • Answer: (C)
    • Explanation: Assertion (A) is true; the heart is a muscular organ about the size of a fist. Reason (R) is false; the source states the size of the heart and that blood transports carbon dioxide, but it does not link the heart’s size directly or primarily to the effectiveness of carbon dioxide transport. The size is a general anatomical characteristic, while carbon dioxide transport is a function of the blood.
  1. Assertion (A): Blood transports food, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogenous wastes in our bodies.

    Reason (R): Plasma transports food, carbon dioxide, and nitrogenous wastes in dissolved form, while oxygen is carried by the red blood corpuscles.
    • Answer: (A)
    • Explanation: Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true. Reason (R) provides the detailed breakdown of how different substances are transported by specific components of the blood, thus explaining the overall transport function stated in Assertion (A).
  1. Assertion (A): Arteries carry blood away from the heart to various organs of the body.

    Reason (R): Veins collect blood from different organs and bring it back to the heart.
    • Answer: (B)
    • Explanation: Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true statements. They correctly define the distinct directional functions of arteries and veins. However, Reason (R) describes the function of veins and does not explain why arteries carry blood away from the heart.
  1. Assertion (A): Lymph is similar to blood plasma but is colourless and contains more protein.

    Reason (R): Lymph is formed when some amount of plasma, proteins, and blood cells escape into intercellular spaces from capillary walls.
    • Answer: (D)
    • Explanation: Assertion (A) is false; lymph is similar to plasma but contains less protein, not more. Reason (R) is true; lymph is indeed formed by the escape of plasma, proteins, and blood cells through capillary pores into intercellular spaces.
  1. Assertion (A): The separation of the right and left sides of the heart is useful for providing a highly efficient supply of oxygen to the body.

    Reason (R): This efficiency is particularly important for animals like birds and mammals, which constantly use energy to maintain their body temperature.
    • Answer: (A)
    • Explanation: Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true. The separation prevents mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood, leading to high oxygen supply efficiency. This efficiency is essential for endothermic animals like birds and mammals because they require constant energy to maintain body temperature, making Reason (R) a correct explanation for the utility of the separation.
  1. Assertion (A): Arteries divide into smaller and smaller vessels upon reaching an organ or tissue.

    Reason (R): This division forms capillaries, which have one-cell thick walls, bringing blood in close contact with individual cells for material exchange.
    • Answer: (A)
    • Explanation: Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true. The division of arteries into capillaries (R) is the mechanism by which blood is brought into intimate contact with all individual cells (A) for the crucial exchange of materials, thus Reason (R) correctly explains Assertion (A).
  1. Assertion (A): Blood plasma is the fluid medium in which red blood corpuscles are dissolved.

    Reason (R): Plasma transports nitrogenous wastes and food in dissolved form.
    • Answer: (D)
    • Explanation: Assertion (A) is false; red blood corpuscles are suspended in plasma, not dissolved. Reason (R) is true; plasma transports food, carbon dioxide, and nitrogenous wastes in dissolved form.
  1. Assertion (A): Animals like birds and mammals have three-chambered hearts that tolerate some mixing of oxygenated and de-oxygenated blood.

    Reason (R): These animals constantly use energy to maintain their body temperature, requiring a highly efficient and unmixed oxygen supply.
    • Answer: (D)
    • Explanation: Assertion (A) is false; birds and mammals have a highly efficient system with complete separation of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood, implicitly indicating a four-chambered heart (not explicitly stated as 4 but implied by efficient separation, unlike the 3-chambered amphibians/reptiles that tolerate mixing). Reason (R) is true; birds and mammals do have high energy needs to maintain body temperature, which requires a highly efficient oxygen supply provided by complete separation of blood streams.

Assertion and Reason Questions

For each of the questions below, two statements are given – one labeled Assertion (A) and the other labeled Reason (R). Select the most appropriate answer from the options provided:

  • (a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
  • (b) Both A and R are true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A.
  • (c) A is true but R is false.
  • (d) A is false but R is true.

1. Question Assertion (A): Plants have relatively low energy needs and can use slow transport systems.

Reason (R): Plants do not move, and a significant proportion of their body tissues consist of dead cells. Answer: (a) Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. The low energy demands of plants, which enable the use of slow transport systems, are directly attributed to their immobility and the presence of numerous dead cells in their tissues. The reason provides the correct explanation for the assertion.


2. Question

Assertion (A): The xylem tissue is responsible for transporting water and minerals throughout the plant body.

Reason (R): Xylem and phloem are described as independently organized conducting tubes. Answer: (b) Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true statements based on the sources. Xylem does transport water and minerals. It is also true that xylem and phloem are independent systems with distinct functions. However, the reason (“Xylem and phloem are independently organized…”) does not explain why xylem specifically transports water and minerals. It merely describes a characteristic of the overall plant transport system.


3. Question

Assertion (A): Translocation, the transport of soluble products of photosynthesis, occurs in the phloem tissue.

Reason (R): Unlike water transport, translocation in phloem is largely explained by simple physical forces and does not require energy.

Answer: (c) Explanation: The assertion is true; translocation of soluble products of photosynthesis occurs in the phloem. The reason is false; translocation in phloem is achieved by utilizing energy (ATP), which is a key difference from water transport in xylem that relies on simple physical forces.


4. Question

Assertion (A): Phloem transports products of photosynthesis only in an upward direction towards growing parts.

Reason (R): The translocation of food and other substances in phloem takes place in the sieve tubes with the help of adjacent companion cells, in both upward and downward directions.

Answer: (d) Explanation: The assertion is false. Phloem transports materials in both upward and downward directions, delivering them to storage organs (roots, fruits, seeds) and growing organs. The reason is true and accurately describes the components involved and the bidirectional nature of phloem transport.


5. Question

Assertion (A): Water moves into the root from the soil to equalize the concentration difference of ions between the root and the soil.

Reason (R): Root cells actively take up ions, which creates this concentration difference, thereby drawing water into the root.

Answer: (a) Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. The active uptake of ions by root cells creates an osmotic gradient, leading to a difference in concentration between the root and the soil. Water then moves into the root by osmosis to eliminate this difference. The reason correctly explains the mechanism described in the assertion.


6. Question

Assertion (A): Transpiration aids in the temperature regulation of the plant body.

Reason (R): Transpiration is defined as the loss of water in the form of vapor from the aerial parts of the plant.

Answer: (b) Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true statements. Transpiration does help regulate temperature, and it is accurately defined as the loss of water vapor from aerial parts. However, the reason (the definition of transpiration) does not explain how it helps in temperature regulation (which is typically through evaporative cooling).


7. Question

Assertion (A): The movement of material in the phloem always occurs from an area of lower osmotic pressure to an area of higher osmotic pressure.

Reason (R): Phloem can move material flexibly according to the plant’s needs, for example, transporting sugar from roots to buds in spring.

Answer: (c) Explanation: The assertion is false. Material in the phloem moves from tissues which have higher osmotic pressure to tissues which have less pressure. The reason is true; phloem transport is adaptable to the plant’s needs, as exemplified by sugar transport from storage to growing buds.


8. Question

Assertion (A): Diffusion is always sufficient for the transport of raw materials and energy throughout all plant body designs.

Reason (R): Plants possess low energy needs and can thus utilize relatively slow transport systems.

Answer: (d) Explanation: The assertion is false. Diffusion is only sufficient for small plants where distances are small; for large plants with complex body designs, a proper transportation system is essential because diffusion is insufficient. The reason is true; plants do have low energy needs due to immobility and a high proportion of dead cells, allowing for slow transport systems.


9. Question

Assertion (A): Evaporation of water molecules from the cells of a leaf creates a suction force that pulls water from the xylem of roots.

Reason (R): This suction, known as transpiration pull, becomes the major driving force in water movement in the xylem during the day when stomata are open.

Answer: (a) Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. The evaporation of water from leaves creates a suction (transpiration pull). This transpiration pull is indeed the primary force driving water movement in the xylem during the day, especially when stomata are open. The reason explains the significance and timing of this process.


10. Question

Assertion (A): Products of photosynthesis are transported from the leaves to other parts of the plant via the phloem.

Reason (R): Phloem tissue transports not only products of photosynthesis but also amino acids and other substances.

Answer: (b) Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. The phloem does transport photosynthetic products from leaves. It is also true that phloem transports amino acids and other substances. However, the fact that phloem carries other substances (reason) does not explain why it transports photosynthetic products from leaves (assertion); it’s an additional characteristic of phloem’s transport capabilities.


11. Question

Assertion (A): Plants use an additional strategy besides root pressure to move water upwards to the highest points of tall plant bodies.

Reason (R): This additional strategy is primarily effective at night when stomata are typically closed, maximizing the impact of root pressure.

Answer: (c) Explanation: The assertion is true; plants use transpiration pull as an additional strategy beyond root pressure for upward water movement, especially in tall plants. The reason is false; this additional strategy (transpiration pull) is dominant during the day when stomata are open, not at night when stomata are typically closed.


12. Question

Assertion (A): Xylem tissue primarily consists of sieve tubes and companion cells for the conduction of water.

Reason (R): At the roots, cells in contact with the soil actively take up ions, causing water to move into the root from the soil. Answer: (d)

Explanation: The assertion is false. Sieve tubes and companion cells are components of phloem tissue, involved in food transport. Xylem consists of vessels and tracheids for water conduction. The reason is true; root cells actively take up ions, which creates a concentration difference that draws water into the root from the soil.


13. Question

Assertion (A): A proper transportation system is crucial for plants with large distances between their soil-contacting organs and chlorophyll-containing organs.

Reason (R): In such plants, diffusion processes alone would be inadequate to supply raw materials to leaves and energy stores to roots.

Answer: (a) Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. The necessity of a dedicated transport system in large plants is directly explained by the inadequacy of diffusion to transport materials effectively over long distances within complex plant body designs.


14. Question

Assertion (A): The translocation of food and other substances in phloem occurs in both upward and downward directions.

Reason (R): Phloem transports materials to diverse destinations including storage organs like roots, fruits, and seeds, as well as to growing organs.

Answer: (b) Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. Phloem does transport in both directions, and it delivers to a variety of storage and growing organs. However, the specific destinations (reason) are examples of where materials go due to bidirectional flow, not the direct explanation for why phloem transport can occur in both directions (which is linked to pressure gradients and plant needs, generated by energy utilization).


15. Question

Assertion (A): Transpiration helps in the absorption and upward movement of water and minerals dissolved in it from roots to the leaves.

Reason (R): Transpiration primarily increases root pressure, which then pushes the water column upwards.

Answer: (c) Explanation: The assertion is true; transpiration assists in the absorption and upward movement of water and minerals. The reason is false; transpiration creates a suction pull (transpiration pull), which is a pulling force, rather than increasing root pressure, which is a pushing force.


16. Question

Assertion (A): The energy for translocation in phloem is directly generated by photosynthesis within the sieve tubes.

Reason (R): Materials like sucrose are transferred into phloem tissue using energy from ATP, which leads to an increase in osmotic pressure.

Answer: (d) Explanation: The assertion is false. While phloem transports products of photosynthesis, the energy for the translocation process itself comes from ATP, not directly from photosynthesis within the sieve tubes. The reason is true; ATP is used to load sucrose into the phloem, which in turn increases the osmotic pressure.


17. Question

Assertion (A): In the spring, sugar stored in root or stem tissue can be transported to developing buds.

Reason (R): The phloem system facilitates the movement of material based on the plant’s needs, supplying energy to areas of active growth like buds.

Answer: (a) Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. The example of sugar being transported from storage to buds in spring is explicitly used to illustrate how the phloem system is adaptable and moves materials according to the plant’s physiological demands. The reason directly explains the assertion.


18. Question

Assertion (A): Xylem vessels and tracheids are interconnected, forming a continuous system for water conduction.

Reason (R): Water, after moving into the root xylem due to ion uptake, forms a column that is steadily pushed upwards by root pressure.

Answer: (b) Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. Xylem components do form a continuous system for water transport. It is also true that root pressure creates an upward-pushed water column in the root xylem. However, the creation of an upward column by root pressure (reason) does not explain the structural interconnectedness of the xylem components (assertion). They are both facts about xylem function but not causally related as explanation/asserted.


19. Questio

Assertion (A): The effect of root pressure in water transport is more important during the night.

Reason (R): During the day, stomata are typically closed, which significantly diminishes transpiration pull, making root pressure the primary force.

Answer: (c) Explanation: The assertion is true; root pressure’s contribution to water transport is indeed more significant at night. The reason is false; during the day, stomata are generally open, and transpiration pull is the major driving force, not root pressure.


20. Question

Assertion (A): The movement of material in the phloem is directly driven by the active pumping of water molecules into the sieve tubes.

Reason (R): The translocation of food and other substances in phloem occurs in sieve tubes with the help of adjacent companion cells.

Answer: (d) Explanation: The assertion is false. Translocation in phloem is achieved by utilizing energy (ATP) to transfer substances like sucrose into the phloem tissue, which then increases osmotic pressure and causes water to move into it, rather than active pumping of water directly. The reason is true; translocation does take place in sieve tubes with the help of companion cells.


21. Question

Assertion (A): Transpiration plays a critical role in both the absorption and upward movement of water and dissolved minerals from roots to the leaves.

Reason (R): The suction created by the evaporation of water from leaf cells pulls water from the xylem cells of roots, thereby facilitating both absorption and upward transport.

Answer: (a) Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. Transpiration indeed assists in the absorption and upward movement of water and minerals. The reason accurately explains the mechanism (transpiration pull) by which this occurs, where the suction pulls water from the root xylem, linking it directly to both absorption and upward movement.


22. Question

Assertion (A): Plants have low energy needs primarily because they do not move from one place to another.

Reason (R): Plant bodies contain a large proportion of dead cells in many tissues.

Answer: (b) Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. Plants’ immobility contributes to their low energy needs (assertion). It is also true that a large proportion of plant body tissues consists of dead cells (reason). While both factors contribute to the low energy needs of plants, the reason (presence of dead cells) is an additional contributing factor, not the direct explanation for why immobility causes low energy needs.


23. Question

Assertion (A): Root pressure is a more significant mechanism for water transport in plants during the nighttime.

Reason (R): During the day, stomata are generally closed, which significantly reduces the effect of transpiration pull, making root pressure more prominent.

Answer: (c) Explanation: The assertion is true; the effect of root pressure in water transport is more important at night. The reason is false; during the day, stomata are typically open, and transpiration pull is the major driving force for water movement, not root pressure.


24. Question

Assertion (A): Phloem transports products of photosynthesis exclusively to the growing tips of stems and leaves.

Reason (R): Phloem delivers substances to various storage organs such as roots, fruits, and seeds, in addition to growing organs.

Answer: (d) Explanation: The assertion is false. Phloem transports photosynthetic products to a wide range of destinations, including storage organs (roots, fruits, seeds) and various growing organs, not exclusively to stem and leaf tips. The reason is true, accurately listing the diverse destinations for phloem-transported materials.


25. Question

Assertion (A): The steady movement of water into root xylem creates a column of water that is steadily pushed upwards.

Reason (R): This initial movement of water into the root from the soil is a direct consequence of active ion uptake by root cells, creating a concentration difference.

Answer: (a) Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. The active uptake of ions by root cells creates a concentration gradient, which causes water to move into the root (osmosis), thereby creating an upward-pushed water column in the root xylem. The reason directly explains the underlying cause of the water column formation.


Assertion and Reason Questions on Human Excretion

Instructions: In the following questions, a statement of Assertion (A) is followed by a statement of Reason (R). Choose the correct option:

  • (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
  • (B) Both A and R are true, but R is NOT the correct explanation of A.
  • (C) A is true, but R is false.
  • (D) A is false, but R is true.
Question 1

Assertion (A): The primary biological purpose of making urine in human beings is to filter out harmful metabolic waste products from the blood.

Reason (R): The kidneys, as part of the human excretory system, contain numerous specialized filtration units called nephrons that are equipped to perform this function.

Show Answer & Explanation

Answer: (A)
Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. The source clearly states that the “purpose of making urine is to filter out waste products from the blood”. The reason further explains how this is achieved, by stating that the kidneys contain “large numbers of these filtration units called nephrons” that are packed close together, directly supporting the mechanism for filtration. Thus, R provides the correct explanation for A.

Question 2

Assertion (A): Many unicellular organisms effectively remove their metabolic wastes through simple diffusion from their body surface.

Reason (R): These organisms are typically in direct contact with the surrounding water, which facilitates the outward movement of waste substances.

Show Answer & Explanation

Answer: (B)
Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true statements. Unicellular organisms indeed “remove these wastes by simple diffusion from the body surface into the surrounding water”. The reason accurately describes the condition (“body surface into the surrounding water”) that makes simple diffusion effective for unicellular organisms. However, the reason describes how diffusion is facilitated rather than why simple diffusion is the chosen strategy over, say, complex organs. It states a contributing factor, not the underlying biological imperative explaining the strategy itself.

Question 3

Assertion (A): The human excretory system comprises a pair of kidneys, a pair of ureters, a urinary bladder, and a urethra.

Reason (R): The kidneys are strategically located in the chest cavity, well-protected by the rib cage.

Show Answer & Explanation

Answer: (C)
Explanation: The assertion is true, as the source lists these components as part of the human excretory system. However, the reason is false. The source explicitly states that “Kidneys are located in the abdomen, one on either side of the backbone,” not the chest cavity.

Question 4

Assertion (A): Substances like glucose, amino acids, and salts are selectively re-absorbed from the initial filtrate primarily in the urinary bladder.

Reason (R): The amount of water re-absorbed during urine formation is directly dependent on how much excess water is in the body and the concentration of dissolved waste needing excretion.

Show Answer & Explanation

Answer: (D)
Explanation: The assertion is false. Selective re-absorption of “glucose, amino acids, salts and a major amount of water” occurs as the urine flows along the coiled tube (part of the nephron), not in the urinary bladder. The urinary bladder is where urine is stored. The reason is true, as the source states that “The amount of water re-absorbed depends on how much excess water there is in the body, and on how much of dissolved waste there is to be excreted”.

Question 5

Assertion (A): Unlike unicellular organisms, complex multi-cellular organisms have evolved specialized organs to perform the function of excretion.

Reason (R): Simple diffusion from the body surface is an insufficient mechanism for waste removal in complex multi-cellular organisms due to their larger volume and intricate internal structures.

Show Answer & Explanation

Answer: (A)
Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. The Chapter highlights that “complex multi-cellular organisms use specialised organs to perform the same function” as waste removal. The reason accurately explains why this specialization is necessary, implying that the simple diffusion strategy of unicellular organisms would be inadequate for the scale and complexity of multicellular life. Therefore, R is the correct explanation for A.

Question – Nitrogenous Wastes

Assertion (A): Nitrogenous wastes such as urea or uric acid are effectively removed from the blood by the kidneys.

Reason (R): The process of waste removal in the kidneys can be conceptually compared to how the lungs remove carbon dioxide from the blood.

Show Answer & Explanation

Answer: (B)
Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true statements. The source explicitly mentions that “nitrogenous waste such as urea or uric acid are removed from blood in the kidneys”. The source also draws an analogy: “Just as CO₂ is removed from the blood in the lungs, nitrogenous waste… are removed from blood in the kidneys”. However, while the analogy (R) states a functional similarity, it does not explain how or why kidneys specifically remove nitrogenous wastes (A). It’s a comparison, not an explanation of the underlying mechanism.

Question – Kidney Filtration Unit

Assertion (A): The fundamental filtration unit in the kidneys is characterized by a cluster of very thin-walled blood capillaries.

Reason (R): This capillary cluster is directly connected to the ureter, which transports the initial filtrate to the urinary bladder.

Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (C)
Explanation: The assertion is true, as the source states that “the basic filtration unit in the kidneys… is a cluster of very thin-walled blood capillaries”. However, the reason is false. The capillary cluster is “associated with the cup-shaped end of a coiled tube called Bowman’s capsule that collects the filtrate,” not directly connected to the ureter. The urine eventually enters the ureter after flowing along the coiled tube.
Question – Urge to Urinate

Assertion (A): The urge to pass urine is an entirely involuntary reflex that humans cannot consciously control.

Reason (R): The urinary bladder is a muscular organ that is under nervous control, enabling individuals to typically control the urge to urinate.

Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (D)
Explanation: The assertion is false. The source states, “As a result, we can usually control the urge to urinate”. The reason is true, as the source mentions that “The bladder is muscular, so it is under nervous control”.
Question – Water Re-absorption in Kidneys

Assertion (A): The amount of water re-absorbed from the initial filtrate by the kidneys is not constant but varies based on physiological needs.

Reason (R): This variability in water re-absorption is crucial for the body to regulate its overall water balance and efficiently excrete dissolved waste products.

Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (A)
Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. The source explicitly states, “The amount of water re-absorbed depends on how much excess water there is in the body, and on how much of dissolved waste there is to be excreted”. The reason correctly explains the physiological purpose and benefit of this variability, which is to maintain bodily homeostasis.
Question – Nephrons in Kidneys

Assertion (A): Each human kidney contains an exceptionally large number of microscopic filtration units called nephrons.

Reason (R): These numerous nephrons are densely packed close together within the kidney structure to maximize efficiency.

Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true statements. The source confirms that “Each kidney has large numbers of these filtration units called nephrons packed close together”. However, while R describes the arrangement of the nephrons (packed closely), it doesn’t explain why there are “large numbers” of them or their fundamental role as filtration units (A). It’s a descriptive fact about their organization, not an explanation for the assertion.
Question – Gaseous Wastes and Excretion

Assertion (A): Gaseous wastes, like those generated during respiration, are considered metabolic wastes that require removal from the body.

Reason (R): The biological process of excretion is defined as the removal of harmful metabolic wastes and specifically excludes the removal of gaseous byproducts.

Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (C)
Explanation: The assertion is true. The source introduces excretion by stating, “We have already discussed how organisms get rid of gaseous wastes generated during photosynthesis or respiration. Other metabolic activities generate nitrogenous materials which need to be removed”, implying gaseous wastes are part of metabolic waste needing removal. The reason is false. The definition of excretion given in the source (“The biological process involved in the removal of these harmful metabolic wastes from the body is called excretion”) precedes and encompasses the discussion of gaseous wastes, meaning it includes them, not excludes them.
Question – Role of Ureters in Excretion

Assertion (A): The ureters are the primary organs responsible for producing urine in the human excretory system.

Reason (R): Urine produced in the kidneys travels through the ureters into the urinary bladder for storage.

Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (D)
Explanation: The assertion is false. The source clearly states, “Urine produced in the kidneys passes through the ureters”, indicating that kidneys produce urine, not ureters. The reason is true, as it accurately describes the pathway of urine: “Urine produced in the kidneys passes through the ureters into the urinary bladder where it is stored”.
Question – Bowman’s Capsule Function

Assertion (A): The Bowman’s capsule is structurally adapted to initiate the collection of filtrate from the blood in the kidneys.

Reason (R): It is a cup-shaped end of a coiled tube precisely associated with a cluster of thin-walled blood capillaries, forming a unit designed for initial filtration.

Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (A)
Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. The source describes Bowman’s capsule as the “cup-shaped end of a coiled tube” associated with the “capillary cluster” that “collects the filtrate”. The reason directly explains the structural arrangement that enables the Bowman’s capsule to perform its collection function as stated in the assertion.
Question – Selective Re-absorption in Nephron

Assertion (A): Useful substances like glucose, amino acids, and a major amount of water are selectively re-absorbed from the initial filtrate as it flows through the coiled tube.

Reason (R): This re-absorption ensures that the body retains vital nutrients and sufficient water, preventing their loss in urine.

Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. The source states that “Some substances in the initial filtrate, such as glucose, amino acids, salts and a major amount of water, are selectively re-absorbed as the urine flows along the tube”. The reason accurately describes the purpose or benefit of this re-absorption (retaining vital nutrients and water). However, the reason does not explain the process or mechanism of selective re-absorption itself; it explains why it happens, not how it happens.
Question – Function of the Urinary Bladder

Assertion (A): The urinary bladder functions primarily as a temporary storage organ for urine.

Reason (R): The bladder continuously releases small, regulated amounts of urine to prevent excessive pressure buildup within the excretory system.

Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (C)
Explanation: The assertion is true; urine “is stored in the urinary bladder until it is released through the urethra”. The reason is false. The source indicates that urine is stored “until the pressure of the expanded bladder leads to the urge to pass it out,” implying storage until a significant volume is reached, not continuous release.
Question – Function of Urinary Bladder

Assertion (A): The urinary bladder functions primarily as a temporary storage organ for urine.

Reason (R): The bladder continuously releases small, regulated amounts of urine to prevent excessive pressure buildup within the excretory system.

Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (C)
Explanation: The assertion is true; urine “is stored in the urinary bladder until it is released through the urethra”. The reason is false. The source indicates that urine is stored “until the pressure of the expanded bladder leads to the urge to pass it out,” implying storage until a significant volume is reached, not continuous release.
Question – Control of Urination

Assertion (A): Humans possess the ability to consciously control the urge to urinate.

Reason (R): This control is possible because the urinary bladder is a muscular organ under the influence of the nervous system.

Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (A)
Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. The source states, “The bladder is muscular, so it is under nervous control… As a result, we can usually control the urge to urinate”. The reason directly explains the physiological basis (muscular, nervous control) that enables the conscious control mentioned in the assertion.
Question – Definition and Strategies of Excretion

Assertion (A): Excretion is a vital biological process defined by the removal of harmful metabolic wastes from an organism’s body.

Reason (R): Organisms employ varied strategies to accomplish the process of excretion, reflecting their diverse biological structures and environments.

Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true statements. The source defines excretion as “The biological process involved in the removal of these harmful metabolic wastes from the body”. It also immediately follows with, “Different organisms use varied strategies to do this”. While both statements are true and related to the concept of excretion, the reason describes a characteristic of excretion across life forms (varied strategies) rather than providing an explanation for the definition or purpose of excretion given in the assertion.
Question – Kidney Filtration Unit vs Alveoli

Assertion (A): The basic filtration unit in the kidneys is structurally and functionally analogous to the alveoli in the lungs due to their shared role in gas exchange.

Reason (R): Both the kidney’s filtration unit and the lung’s functional unit (alveoli) involve clusters of very thin-walled blood capillaries for efficient substance transfer.

Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (C)
Explanation: The assertion is false. While the source draws an analogy between kidneys and lungs, it is about filtering substances from blood (nitrogenous waste in kidneys, CO₂ in lungs) and the presence of “cluster of very thin-walled blood capillaries” in their basic filtration units. The analogy is not about gas exchange in the kidney, nor is the filtration unit directly analogous to alveoli for the purpose of gas exchange in the kidney. The reason is true, as the source states the kidney’s basic filtration unit is a “cluster of very thin-walled blood capillaries,” and implies a similar structure in the lungs for CO₂ removal.
Question – Water Re-absorption and Ureter Function

Assertion (A): The extent of water re-absorption in the kidneys is primarily regulated by the initial concentration of glucose present in the filtrate.

Reason (R): Urine that forms in each kidney ultimately enters a long tube known as the ureter.

Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (D)
Explanation: The assertion is false. The source states that “The amount of water re-absorbed depends on how much excess water there is in the body, and on how much of dissolved waste there is to be excreted,” not primarily on glucose concentration. While glucose is re-absorbed, its presence doesn’t dictate water re-absorption. The reason is true: “The urine forming in each kidney eventually enters a long tube, the ureter, which connects the kidneys with the urinary bladder”.
Question – Complexity of Human Excretory System

Assertion (A): The human excretory system is characterized by its complexity, featuring multiple specialized organs working in concert.

Reason (R): This intricate design is essential for the effective removal of metabolic wastes from a complex multicellular organism, a task that simple diffusion cannot adequately accomplish.

Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (A)
Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. The source details the multiple specialized organs of the human excretory system. The reason explains the necessity for this complexity, drawing a contrast with the simpler diffusion method used by unicellular organisms and implying its inadequacy for complex multicellular organisms. Therefore, R provides a correct explanation for A.
Question – Kidney Location and Anatomical Placement

Assertion (A): The human kidneys are located in the abdomen, specifically one on either side of the backbone.

Reason (R): This anatomical placement ensures their direct and optimal access to the major blood vessels for efficient blood filtration.

Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true statements. The source explicitly states the kidney’s location: “Kidneys are located in the abdomen, one on either side of the backbone”. While their location does facilitate blood access, the source states their location but does not explain the specific anatomical reasoning for this placement as directly related to “optimal access” for “major blood vessels.” It is a reasonable inference, but not directly stated as the reason in the source.
Question – Kidney Filtration and Re-absorption

Assertion (A): The filtration unit in the kidneys contains a cluster of very thin-walled blood capillaries.

Reason (R): These specific capillaries are primarily responsible for the selective re-absorption of useful substances like glucose and amino acids from the filtrate back into the blood.

Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (C)
Explanation: The assertion is true, as the source states the “basic filtration unit in the kidneys… is a cluster of very thin-walled blood capillaries”. However, the reason is false. While selective re-absorption occurs, it happens “as the urine flows along the tube” (after the Bowman’s capsule), not primarily within the initial capillary cluster itself (which is for initial filtration).
Question – Types of Metabolic Wastes

Assertion (A): Nitrogenous materials are the exclusive type of harmful metabolic wastes that require removal from the human body.

Reason (R): The biological process of excretion is fundamentally defined as the removal of harmful metabolic wastes from the body.

Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (D)
Explanation: The assertion is false. The source initially mentions “gaseous wastes generated during photosynthesis or respiration” also needing to be removed, in addition to “nitrogenous materials”, indicating that nitrogenous wastes are not the only type. The reason is true, as it correctly defines excretion: “The biological process involved in the removal of these harmful metabolic wastes from the body is called excretion”.
Question – Voluntary Control of Urination

Assertion (A): The ability to consciously delay or initiate urination in humans is directly linked to the muscular nature and nervous control of the urinary bladder.

Reason (R): Although pressure from an expanded bladder creates the urge to urinate, the nervous system allows for voluntary control to override this urge until an appropriate time.

Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (A)
Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true. The source states, “The bladder is muscular, so it is under nervous control, as we have discussed elsewhere. As a result, we can usually control the urge to urinate”. The reason explains how this control is exerted: the urge is felt due to pressure, but nervous control permits conscious regulation. Therefore, R is the correct explanation for A.

Instructions for Assertion (A) and Reason (R) Questions: Choose the most appropriate option:

  • A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
  • B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
  • C) A is true but R is false.
  • D) A is false but R is true.

Question 1

Assertion (A):
Plant excretion mechanisms are fundamentally distinct from those employed by animals.

Reason (R): Plants utilize strategies like storing waste in dead cells and shedding parts, which are not typical animal excretory methods.

Answer: A

Explanation: The Chapter explicitly states that plants use “completely different strategies for excretion than those of animals”. The reason provided details some of these unique plant strategies, directly explaining the difference.

Question 2

Assertion (A):
Oxygen is categorized as a waste product generated during photosynthesis.

Reason (R): Plants also have mechanisms to deal with carbon dioxide.

Answer: B

Explanation: The assertion is true, as oxygen is explicitly stated as a waste product of photosynthesis. The reason is also true, as plants manage both oxygen and CO₂. However, the fact that plants deal with CO₂ does not explain why oxygen is considered a waste product of photosynthesis.

Question 3

Assertion (A): Plants efficiently remove excess water through the process of transpiration.

Reason (R): Transpiration primarily involves the absorption of water vapor from the atmosphere by leaves.

Answer: C

Explanation: The assertion is true; transpiration is a method for plants to get rid of excess water. The reason is false; transpiration is the process of water evaporation from plant surfaces, not absorption from the atmosphere.

Question 4

Assertion (A):
The majority of plant tissues are composed of dead cells that actively photosynthesize.

Reason (R): Plant waste products can be stored in cellular vacuoles.

Answer: D

Explanation: The assertion is false; while “many of their tissues consist of dead cells” used for waste management, these dead cells do not actively photosynthesize. The reason is true; waste products are indeed stored in cellular vacuoles.

Question 5

Assertion (A): The shedding of plant parts, such as leaves, serves as an excretory strategy.

Reason (R): Waste products accumulated by the plant can be stored within these parts before they are lost.

Answer: A

Explanation: The Chapter indicates that plants “can even lose some parts such as leaves” as a waste management strategy, and that “Waste products may be stored in leaves that fall off”, directly supporting the reason as an explanation for the assertion.

Question 6

Assertion (A): Cellular vacuoles are critical organelles for waste storage in plant cells.

Reason (R): Plants also store waste products as resins and gums in old xylem.

Answer: B

Explanation: Both statements are true according to the source: vacuoles store waste and resins/gums are stored in old xylem. However, the fact that resins and gums are stored elsewhere does not explain why vacuoles are critical for waste storage.

Question 7

Assertion (A): Plants store resins and gums specifically in old xylem.

Reason (R): Resins and gums are actively used by the plant for photosynthesis in the old xylem.

Answer: C

Explanation: The assertion is true, as resins and gums are stored in old xylem. The reason is false; the source identifies resins and gums as “waste products” stored in old xylem, implying they are not actively used by the plant, especially not for photosynthesis.

Question 8

Assertion (A): Plants only excrete waste products through the shedding of leaves.

Reason (R): Plants can excrete some waste substances directly into the soil around them.

Answer: D

Explanation: The assertion is false; while shedding leaves is a strategy, plants also store waste in vacuoles, as resins/gums, and excrete into the soil. The reason is true, as plants excrete into the soil.

Question 9

Assertion (A): The unique waste management strategies of plants are partly due to their tissue composition.

Reason (R): Plants can utilize their dead cells and the ability to lose parts for waste disposal.

Answer: A

Explanation: The source links plant waste disposal to the fact that “many of their tissues consist of dead cells, and that they can even lose some parts such as leaves”, directly explaining how tissue composition contributes to their strategies.

Question 10

Assertion (A): Plants have mechanisms to handle both oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Reason (R): Oxygen itself can be thought of as a waste product generated during photosynthesis.

Answer: B

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true statements directly from the source. However, the fact that oxygen is a waste product does not explain the broader concept that plants deal with both oxygen and carbon dioxide. They are distinct, though related, facts.

Question 11

Assertion (A): Many plant waste products are stored permanently in cellular vacuoles.

Reason (R): Cellular vacuoles are primarily involved in the transport of water through the xylem.

Answer: C

Explanation: The assertion is true that waste products are stored in cellular vacuoles. The reason is false; vacuoles are primarily storage organelles, not involved in bulk water transport through xylem.

Question 12

Assertion (A): Transpiration is the primary method plants use to absorb nutrients from the soil.

Reason (R): Plants can get rid of excess water by transpiration.

Answer: D

Explanation: The assertion is false; transpiration is about water loss, not nutrient absorption. The reason is true; plants use transpiration for excess water removal.

Question 13

Assertion (A): Resins and gums are significant forms of stored waste products in plants.

Reason (R): These substances are specifically found accumulated in older, less active xylem tissues.

Answer: A

Explanation: As per the chapter “Other waste products are stored as resins and gums, especially in old xylem”, directly connecting the storage form to its location and reinforcing its role as waste storage.

Question 14

Assertion (A): Plants employ various strategies for waste management, unlike animals.

Reason (R): Plants also deal with the management of CO2 levels.

Answer: B

Explanation: The assertion is true; plants have different strategies. The reason is also true; plants deal with CO2. However, managing CO2 levels is one aspect of plant gas exchange, not a comprehensive explanation for why their general waste management strategies differ from animals.

Question 15

Assertion (A): The ability to lose parts like leaves is a unique waste disposal strategy for plants.

Reason (R): This strategy is exclusively used for the removal of toxic heavy metals.

Answer: C

Explanation: The assertion is true; losing parts like leaves is a plant waste strategy. The reason is false; the source does not specify what wastes are stored in leaves, only that “Waste products may be stored in leaves that fall off”. It does not state it’s exclusively for heavy metals.

Question 16

Assertion (A): Plants excrete all their waste products directly into the soil.

Reason (R): Waste products can be stored within a plant’s cellular vacuoles.

Answer: D

Explanation: The assertion is false; plants excrete some waste into the soil, but also store waste internally in vacuoles, dead cells, and shed parts. The reason is true, as vacuoles store waste.

Question 17

Assertion (A): The storage of waste products in dead cells is an effective strategy for plants.

Reason (R): By utilizing dead tissues, plants can isolate waste substances, preventing their interference with active metabolic processes.

Answer: A

Explanation: The source states plants use “the fact that many of their tissues consist of dead cells” for waste management. Storing waste in dead tissues effectively isolates these substances, preventing their interference with active cellular processes. This is how plants utilize this tissue characteristic for excretion.

Question 18

Assertion (A): Plants have mechanisms to handle excess oxygen within their systems.

Reason (R): Oxygen itself can be thought of as a waste product generated during photosynthesis.

Answer: B

Explanation: Both the assertion and the reason are true statements directly from the chapter. However, the fact that oxygen is considered a waste product does not explain the broader mechanism plants use to handle it. The assertion is about how they deal with it, while the reason is what it is.

Question 19

Assertion (A): Transpiration helps plants to manage their water balance.

Reason (R): Transpiration causes water to be absorbed from the roots into the leaves.

Answer: C

Explanation: The assertion is true as transpiration gets rid of excess water. The reason is false; transpiration is the loss of water vapor from leaves, which drives water uptake from roots, but it’s not the absorption itself.

Question 20

Assertion (A): All waste products generated by plants are stored permanently within their internal structures.

Reason (R): Some plant waste substances are excreted into the surrounding soil.

Answer: D

Explanation: The assertion is false because some wastes are released into the soil, and others are stored in leaves that fall off, which are not permanent internal structures. The reason is true, as plants excrete waste into the soil.

Question 21

Assertion (A): Plant strategies for waste management are diverse and multi-faceted.

Reason (R): They involve internal storage, shedding of parts, and external release into the soil.

Answer: A

Explanation: The assertion accurately summarizes the various methods described in the source. The reason provides specific examples of these diverse strategies, directly explaining the assertion.

Question 22

Assertion (A): Waste products stored in cellular vacuoles are isolated from the active cytoplasm.

Reason (R): Resins and gums are another form of waste storage found in old xylem.

Answer: B

Explanation: The assertion is a valid interpretation of waste storage in vacuoles. The reason is also true, stating another storage method. However, the existence of resins and gums does not explain the isolation of waste in vacuoles.

Question 23

Assertion (A): Plants have unique methods for dealing with excess CO2.

Reason (R): Plants typically excrete carbon dioxide by releasing it into the water around their roots.

Answer: C

Explanation: The assertion is true; As per the exact lines of your chapter “We have discussed earlier how plants deal with oxygen as well as CO2”. The reason is false; the source mentions plants “excrete some waste substances into the soil around them”, but this typically refers to non-gaseous wastes and does not specify release into water around roots for CO2. Gaseous CO2 exchange generally occurs through leaves.

Question 24

Assertion (A): All plants store resins and gums exclusively in their actively photosynthesizing leaves.

Reason (R): Resins and gums are specifically stored as waste products in old xylem.

Answer: D

Explanation: The assertion is false; resins and gums are stored “especially in old xylem”, not exclusively in leaves, and old xylem is not actively photosynthesizing. The reason is true.

Question 25

Assertion (A): The ability of plants to lose parts like leaves contributes significantly to their overall waste management strategy.

Reason (R): This allows for the physical removal of accumulated waste products that have been stored in those parts.

Answer: A

Explanation: The Chapter of your science book indicates that plants use the ability to “lose some parts such as leaves” and that “Waste products may be stored in leaves that fall off”, making the reason a direct explanation of the assertion.


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