1996 General Studies, all questions

UPSC Prelims 1996 · General Studies

Question 98: Science and Technology

Which one of the following is a modified stem?

aCarrot
bSweet potato
cCoconut
dPotato

AnswerThe answer is (d).

Potato is a stem tuber: an underground stem swollen with stored starch, with 'eyes' (nodes) that sprout into new shoots. Carrot and sweet potato are modified roots, and coconut is a fruit (a drupe). Remember: potato - stem tuber; sweet potato - root tuber.

Why each option is right or wrong
  • (a) Carrot is a modified root (taproot).
  • (b) Sweet potato is a modified root.
  • (c) Coconut is a fruit.
  • (d) Right: potato is a modified underground stem.

Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 1996, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.