2007 General Studies, all questions

UPSC Prelims 2007 · General Studies

Question 109: Science and Technology

Which one of the following parts of the pitcher plant becomes modified into a pitcher?

aStem
bLeaf
cStipule
dPetiole

AnswerThe answer is (b).

In the pitcher plant (Nepenthes) the leaf is modified into the pitcher, which has a lid at its mouth and is joined to the flattened leaf base by a tendril-like stalk. Insects fall into the digestive fluid, helping the plant make up for nitrogen-poor soil.

Why each option is right or wrong
  • (a) The stem is not modified into the pitcher.
  • (b) Correct: the leaf is modified into the pitcher.
  • (c) Stipules are not what forms the pitcher.
  • (d) The pitcher is a modification of the leaf as a whole, not just the petiole.

Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2007, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.