[Campbell Biology P.879] According to the provided text, what is a fruit defined as, and wha... | Practice Question
According to the provided text, what is a fruit defined as, and what is its primary role concerning the seeds?
A: A fruit is the mature ovule of a flower and primarily serves to germinate.
B: A fruit is the fertilized stigma of a flower, aiding in pollination.
C: A fruit is the mature ovary of a flower, protecting enclosed seeds and aiding in their dispersal by wind or animals.
D: A fruit is the thickened pericarp of a flower, mainly providing nutrients to the developing plant.
Explanation
The text clearly states, "A fruit is the mature ovary of a flower. ... The fruit protects the enclosed seeds and, when mature, aids in their dispersal by wind or animals."