[Campbell Biology P.669] Based on the provided text, which of the following are considered d... | Practice Question

Based on the provided text, which of the following are considered derived traits of plants that distinguish them from charophyte algae?

  • A: Presence of multicellular, dependent embryos.
  • B: Production of walled spores in sporangia.
  • C: Occurrence of alternation of generations.
  • D: Presence of apical meristems.
  • E: Photosynthesis using chlorophyll a and b.

Explanation

The introductory paragraph explicitly states that charophyte algae lack 'alternation of generations and the associated trait of multicellular, dependent embryos,' as well as 'walled spores produced in sporangia and apical meristems.' These are therefore derived traits that distinguish plants. Photosynthesis using chlorophyll a and b is a shared ancestral trait with charophytes, not a derived distinguishing trait.