If the endosperm has 36 chromosomes, determine the chromosome number of the male and female gametes.

12, 12

The correct answer is option (1) - 12, 12

To determine the chromosome number of the male and female gametes, let's analyze the given information step-by-step:

Key Concepts:

1. Endosperm is a triploid (3n) tissue formed by the fusion of:
• Two polar nuclei (from the female gametophyte, 2n)
• One sperm nucleus (from the male gametophyte, n).
2. The chromosome number of the endosperm is the sum of the chromosomes contributed by the male and female gametes in this process.

Given:

• Endosperm chromosome number = 36 (3n).

Calculation:

• Let the haploid chromosome number (n) of the male and female gametes be x.
• The female contributes two polar nuclei (2n = 2x) and the male contributes one sperm (n = x).
• The total chromosome number in the endosperm is:

                                  2x (female)+x (male)=3x=36

       Solving for x:  x=  \(\frac{36}{3}\)=12

Conclusion:

• The chromosome number of both the male and female gametes is 12.

Correct Answer: 12, 12