How many cells are located at the chalazal end of the embryo sac?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) →Three
Explanation:
- In a mature embryo sac (female gametophyte) of an angiosperm, there are seven cells and eight nuclei.
- The chalazal end of the embryo sac contains three antipodal cells, which are non-functional and eventually degenerate.
Cellular arrangement in the embryo sac:
- Micropylar end → Egg apparatus (3 cells)
- One egg cell
- Two synergids (assist in pollen tube guidance)
- Central cell → Contains two polar nuclei, which fuse with a sperm cell to form endosperm (3n).
- Chalazal end → Three antipodal cells
Other options:
One – Incorrect, because there are three antipodal cells at the chalazal end.
Two – Incorrect, because the chalazal end has three cells, not two.
Four – Incorrect, because only three cells