Q1. [3] deep thorough-understanding
[short_answer] Spore formation, vegetative propagation, and budding are structurally very different processes, yet they are all classified as asexual reproduction. What single underlying cellular property unites them, and how does each process exploit that property in a distinct way? Illustrate your answer with one named example of each process.
Generated by claude-sonnet-4-6 · 2026-06-26 01:08 · grounding rag
Model Answer
The single underlying cellular property that unites all three processes is mitotic cell division — each cell involved can grow, divide, and differentiate to produce a complete new individual (totipotency).
- Spore formation (Rhizopus): Sporangia produce spores by cell division; each spore, protected by a thick wall, germinates on a moist surface to form a new organism.
- Vegetative propagation (Bryophyllum): Leaf-margin buds develop through cell division into new plantlets that fall and grow independently in soil.
- Budding (Hydra): Repeated cell division at one specific site produces an outgrowth (bud) that matures and detaches as a new individual.
All three create new individuals from a single parent without gamete formation.
Source: Chapter 7, Sections 7.2.4, 7.2.5, 7.2.6
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Explanation
- The examiner expects you to name one common cellular property first, then distinguish how each process uses it differently — with named examples.
- "Totipotency" (ability of a cell to develop into a whole organism) is the precise term, but CBSE Class 10 accepts "mitotic cell division / repeated cell division" as the core idea.
- Use the exact examples from the textbook: Rhizopus (spores), Bryophyllum (vegetative propagation), Hydra (budding) — these are the safest choices.
- Do not confuse budding in Hydra with budding in yeast here; the passage specifically discusses Hydra.