Which of the following sets of features correctly describes the defining characteristics of Gymnosperms, distinguishing them from Pteridophytes and Angiosperms?
Correct: B
Let's analyze the options:
(A) Presence of vessels in xylem: Most gymnosperms (except Gnetales) lack vessels; they are characteristic of angiosperms. So, incorrect.
(B) Naked ovules: A defining characteristic of gymnosperms, meaning ovules are not enclosed by an ovary wall. Absence of fruits: Directly follows from naked ovules. Presence of cones: Reproductive structures for both male and female in most gymnosperms. Absence of double fertilization: Double fertilization is unique to angiosperms. This option correctly lists all distinguishing features of gymnosperms from both pteridophytes (which lack naked ovules, fruits, and cones in this form) and angiosperms (which have flowers, enclosed ovules, fruits, and double fertilization). So, this is the correct answer.
(C) Presence of flowers: Characteristic of angiosperms, not gymnosperms. So, incorrect.
(D) Presence of sori: Characteristic of Pteridophytes (ferns). Prominent independent gametophyte: Characteristic of pteridophytes, not gymnosperms. Absence of seeds: Pteridophytes are seedless, but gymnosperms produce seeds. So, incorrect.