2013 GS Paper I, all questions
UPSC Prelims 2013 · GS Paper I
Question 91: Science and Technology
Many transplanted seedlings do not grow because
athe new soil does not contain favourable minerals
bmost of the root hairs grip the new soil too hard
cmost of the root hairs are lost during transplantation
dleaves get damaged during transplantation
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (c).
A seedling absorbs water and minerals through its root hairs, tiny outgrowths near the root tips. When it is pulled up for transplanting, most of the root hairs are torn off or lost with the soil. The plant then cannot absorb enough water and wilts or dies until new root hairs grow. This is why seedlings are transplanted with a ball of soil around the roots.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Wrong. The new soil is usually as fertile as the old.
- (b) Wrong. Root hairs absorb; they do not grip the soil harmfully.
- (c) Correct. Loss of root hairs cuts water and mineral uptake.
- (d) Wrong. Leaf damage is not the usual cause.
Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2013, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.