Question

Given below are two statements related to the apoplast pathway:
Statement (I): When some amount of water passes across the root through the cell wall and the intercellular spaces of cortical cells of root, it is called apoplast pathway.
Statement (II): An additional apoplastic route that allows direct access to the xylem and phloem is along the margins of secondary roots.
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below.

• A. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are correct.
• B. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are incorrect.
• C. Statement (I) is correct but Statement (II) is incorrect.
• D. Statement (I) is incorrect but Statement (II) is correct.

Hint:

Check each statement: water moves through cell walls in the apoplast, and emerging lateral roots break the Casparian strip.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
The apoplast pathway is movement of water through cell walls and intercellular spaces, without entering the protoplast.

Step 2: Statement (I)
Water crossing the root cortex through cell walls and intercellular spaces follows the apoplast pathway. This is correct.

Step 3: Statement (II)
Lateral roots arise from the pericycle and push through the endodermis and cortex.
At their margins the Casparian strip is broken, so water can reach xylem and phloem directly along the cell walls. This is correct.

Final Answer:
Both statements are correct. \[ \boxed{\text{(A) }\text{Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are correct.}} \]