Here’s an expository comprehension passage along with a multiple-choice quiz. Read the passage carefully and answer the questions by selecting the correct option. The correct answers are provided at the end.
Passage:
Pollination is a crucial process in the life cycle of flowering plants. It is the transfer of pollen from the male part of a flower (anther) to the female part (stigma), enabling fertilization and the production of seeds. While some plants can self-pollinate, many rely on external agents like wind, insects, birds, or other animals for the transfer of pollen.
One of the most common pollinators is the honeybee. Honeybees collect nectar from flowers, and as they do so, pollen from the flower sticks to their bodies. When they move on to another flower, some of this pollen is transferred, facilitating pollination. This process is vital for the reproduction of various plant species, including many of the crops that humans depend on for food.
Understanding the importance of pollination is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and ensuring food security. Human activities, such as the use of pesticides and habitat destruction, can negatively impact pollinators and disrupt the delicate balance of ecosystems. Therefore, efforts to protect and promote pollinators are essential for the well-being of both plant and animal life.
Questions:
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What is pollination, and why is it crucial for flowering plants?
a. It is the growth of flowers, and it ensures colourful blooms.
b. It is the process of seed formation, and it helps in plant reproduction.
c. It is the spread of pollen in the air, and it aids in photosynthesis.
d. It is the decay of flowers, and it prevents overgrowth.
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What is the role of honeybees in the pollination process?
a. They eat the pollen from flowers.
b. They collect nectar from flowers and unintentionally transfer pollen.
c. They are attracted to flowers but do not contribute to pollination.
d. They prevent the transfer of pollen between flowers.
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How do some plants achieve pollination without external agents?
a. They rely on the wind to carry pollen.
b. They self-pollinate by transferring pollen within the same flower.
c. They attract birds for pollination.
d. They produce seeds without the need for pollination.
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Why is understanding the importance of pollination crucial for humans?
a. It has no impact on human life.
b. It contributes to the growth of decorative plants.
c. It is essential for maintaining biodiversity and ensuring food security.
d. It only affects plant populations in remote areas.
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How can human activities negatively impact pollinators?
a. By encouraging habitat preservation
b. By using pesticides and destroying habitats
c. By promoting biodiversity
d. By planting more flowering plants
Answers:
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b. It is the process of seed formation, and it helps in plant reproduction.
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b. They collect nectar from flowers and unintentionally transfer pollen.
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b. They self-pollinate by transferring pollen within the same flower.
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c. It is essential for maintaining biodiversity and ensuring food security.
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b. By using pesticides and destroying habitats