Question

Which of the following traits characterizes gymnosperms?

a. The plants carry exposed seeds on modified leaves.

b. Reproductive structures are located in a flower.

c. After fertilization, the ovary thickens and forms a fruit.

d. The gametophyte is the longest phase of the life cycle.

Short answer

Option a.The plants carry exposed seeds on modified leaves is correct

Step-by-step solution

Step 1

• The word gymnosperm comes from the Greek word gymnosmeaning "naked" and sperm means "seed".
• Gymnosperms have naked seeds that they are enclosed in a fruit or ovary.

Step 2

The seeds of many gymnosperms are borne in cones and aren't visible until maturity.

Step 3

In gymnosperm, seeds are not encased within an ovary, they sit exposed on the surface of leave-like structure called bracts.