AIIMS 2010 Botany Gametophyte and Sporophyte Relationships MCQ Question

In the plant life cycle, the gametophyte is the haploid phase that produces gametes, while the sporophyte is the diploid phase that produces spores. In pteridophytes (option A), the gametophyte and sporophyte are independent of each other. The gametophyte is a small, free-living structure, while the sporophyte is typically larger and more dominant. In contrast, in bryophytes (option D), the sporophyte is dependent on the gametophyte for nutrition and support. In angiosperms (option B) and gymnosperms (option C), the gametophyte is reduced and is dependent on the sporophyte, as it develops within the reproductive structures of the sporophyte. Therefore, the correct answer is A, as pteridophytes exhibit independence between these two phases.