Practice 60+ topic-wise MCQs on Class 9 Science Chapter 3 with detailed answers and explanations. Questions cover meristematic tissue, permanent tissues, epithelial tissue, connective tissue, muscular tissue, nervous tissue, and the musculoskeletal system. Aligned with NCERT Exploration textbook 2026–27.
Class 9 Biology Chapter 3 | 60+ MCQs with Detailed Answers | Reading Time: 20 minutes
Test your understanding of the Tissues in Action chapter with these carefully prepared multiple choice questions. Each question includes a one-line explanation to reinforce the concept. Click Show Answer to reveal the answer.
These questions cover the definition of tissue, histology, levels of organisation, and the difference between plant and animal growth. Review the plant and animal tissues overview for revision.
Q1. A group of cells that are similar in structure and work together to perform a common function is called:
A) Organ
B) Tissue
C) Organ system
D) Organism
Answer: B) Tissue
A tissue is a group of cells with similar structure and origin working together to perform a specific function, enabling division of labour in multicellular organisms.
Q2. The branch of biology that deals with the microscopic study of tissues is called:
A) Cytology
B) Ecology
C) Histology
D) Physiology
Answer: C) Histology
Histology is the microscopic study of the structure of biological tissues. Cytology deals with cells, ecology with ecosystems, and physiology with body functions.
Q3. Which sequence correctly represents the levels of organisation in multicellular animals, from simplest to most complex?
A) Cells → Organs → Tissues → Organ Systems
B) Cells → Tissues → Organs → Organ Systems
C) Tissues → Cells → Organ Systems → Organs
D) Organs → Tissues → Cells → Organ Systems
Answer: B) Cells → Tissues → Organs → Organ Systems
The correct order of biological organisation in animals is: Cells → Tissues → Organs → Organ Systems → Organism. Each level builds on the previous one.
Q4. Growth in animals is generally described as:
A) Indeterminate and localised to specific regions
B) Determinate and occurring throughout the body
C) Indeterminate and occurring throughout the body
D) Determinate and localised to meristems
Answer: B) Determinate and occurring throughout the body
Animals show determinate growth — they stop growing after reaching maturity. Cell division can occur throughout the body, unlike plants where growth is restricted to meristems.
Q5. The process by which meristematic cells take up a permanent shape, size, and function is called:
A) Regeneration
B) Reproduction
C) Differentiation
D) Respiration
Answer: C) Differentiation
Differentiation is the process by which dividing meristematic cells acquire a permanent form and function, becoming permanent tissue. This process is reversible in some plant cells.
Q6. Plant growth is described as indeterminate because:
A) Plants stop growing after flowering
B) Plants continue to grow throughout their life due to meristematic tissue
C) Plants grow only during the rainy season
D) Plant growth is the same in all directions
Answer: B) Plants continue to grow throughout their life due to meristematic tissue
Because meristematic tissue is retained throughout the plant's life, plants can keep growing indefinitely, unlike animals which stop after reaching maturity.
Q7. Which feature distinguishes plant growth from animal growth?
A) Animal growth is indeterminate; plant growth is determinate
B) Plant growth is localised at meristems; animal growth can occur throughout the body
C) Both plant and animal growth are localised to specific regions
D) Plants grow only in length, while animals grow only in girth
Answer: B) Plant growth is localised at meristems; animal growth can occur throughout the body
In plants, cell division is restricted to meristematic regions. In animals, most cells can divide and growth occurs throughout the body, though it is determinate (stops at maturity).
Q8. Division of labour in multicellular organisms means:
A) All cells perform all functions equally
B) Different groups of cells perform different specialised functions
C) Labour is divided between plants and animals
D) Cells compete with each other for resources
Answer: B) Different groups of cells perform different specialised functions
Division of labour means specialised tissues perform specific tasks efficiently — for example, muscle tissue for movement, nervous tissue for coordination, and epithelial tissue for protection.
Q9. Which level of organisation in the body includes multiple organs working together to perform a specific body function?
A) Tissue level
B) Organ level
C) Organ system level
D) Cell level
Answer: C) Organ system level
An organ system is a group of organs working together — for example, the digestive system (mouth, oesophagus, stomach, intestines) working together to digest food.
Q10. In unicellular organisms, all life processes are carried out by:
A) Specialised tissues
B) A single cell
C) Multiple organs
D) An organ system
Answer: B) A single cell
In unicellular organisms such as Amoeba, Paramecium, and bacteria, all life functions — digestion, respiration, excretion, reproduction — are performed within a single cell.
Questions on the types, location, and characteristics of meristematic tissue — the actively dividing tissue responsible for plant growth.
Q11. Meristematic tissue is characterised by cells that:
A) Are dead with thickened walls
B) Are capable of continuous cell division
C) Have large central vacuoles
D) Are highly lignified
Answer: B) Are capable of continuous cell division
Meristematic cells are undifferentiated, thin-walled, actively dividing cells with dense cytoplasm and prominent nuclei. They lack vacuoles and produce new cells for plant growth.
Q12. Apical meristem is present at:
A) The base of leaves and internodes
B) The growing tips of stem and root
C) The sides of stem and root
D) The bark of the tree
Answer: B) The growing tips of stem and root
Apical meristem is found at the tips of main stem, main root, and their branches. It is responsible for the primary growth — increase in length of the plant.
Q13. The meristem responsible for the increase in girth (thickness) of stem and root is:
A) Apical meristem
B) Intercalary meristem
C) Lateral meristem
D) Ground meristem
Answer: C) Lateral meristem
Lateral meristem (also called cambium) occurs on the sides of stem and root. It adds secondary tissue for increase in girth. It includes vascular cambium and cork cambium (phellogen).
Q14. Intercalary meristem is located:
A) At the tips of roots and stems
B) At the base of internodes and leaves
C) Along the sides of the stem
D) In the vascular bundles
Answer: B) At the base of internodes and leaves
Intercalary meristem is present at the base of leaves and internodes. It is responsible for elongation of internodes and the straightening of lodged (fallen) stems in grasses.
Q15. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of meristematic tissue cells?
A) Dense cytoplasm
B) Thin cellulose walls
C) Large central vacuoles
D) Prominent nuclei
Answer: C) Large central vacuoles
Meristematic cells have dense cytoplasm, thin walls, and prominent nuclei but lack large vacuoles. Large vacuoles are a feature of mature permanent plant cells, not actively dividing cells.
Q16. When the tip of a sugarcane plant is removed but the plant continues to grow in length, it is due to the activity of:
A) Apical meristem
B) Lateral meristem
C) Intercalary meristem
D) Cork cambium
Answer: C) Intercalary meristem
Even after the tip (apical meristem) is removed, the sugarcane continues growing because intercalary meristem at the base of internodes remains active and continues elongation.
Q17. Vascular cambium and cork cambium are both examples of:
A) Apical meristem
B) Intercalary meristem
C) Lateral meristem
D) Primary meristem
Answer: C) Lateral meristem
Both vascular cambium (produces secondary xylem and phloem) and cork cambium or phellogen (produces cork/bark) are lateral meristems responsible for secondary growth in girth.
Q18. Cells produced by meristematic tissue initially resemble:
A) Mature sclerenchyma cells
B) The parent meristematic cells
C) Cork cells
D) Companion cells
Answer: B) The parent meristematic cells
New cells produced by meristematic division initially look like the parent meristematic cell. As they grow and mature, they undergo differentiation and develop specialised features.
Q19. A gardener regularly clips the tip of a hedge to keep it bushy. Which meristem is removed and which gets stimulated?
A) Lateral meristem removed; apical meristem stimulated
B) Apical meristem removed; axillary/lateral buds activated
C) Intercalary meristem removed; cork cambium stimulated
D) Cork cambium removed; vascular cambium stimulated
Answer: B) Apical meristem removed; axillary/lateral buds activated
Removing the apical meristem (tip) stops upward growth and promotes branching by activating lateral buds. This makes the plant grow bushier rather than taller — a principle used in gardening.
Q20. The tissue formed when meristematic cells take up a permanent function and lose the ability to divide is called:
A) Complex tissue
B) Permanent tissue
C) Conducting tissue
D) Protective tissue
Answer: B) Permanent tissue
When meristematic cells differentiate and cease dividing, they become permanent tissue. These may be simple (one cell type) or complex (more than one cell type).
Questions on parenchyma, collenchyma, and sclerenchyma. See permanent tissues and plant tissue systems for detailed notes.
Q21. The most common simple permanent tissue in plants, which stores food and has large intercellular spaces, is:
A) Sclerenchyma
B) Collenchyma
C) Parenchyma
D) Chlorenchyma
Answer: C) Parenchyma
Parenchyma consists of living, thin-walled, loosely packed cells with large intercellular spaces. It stores food, water, and gases, and is found in all parts of the plant body.
Q22. Collenchyma tissue provides:
A) Mechanical strength only, with no flexibility
B) Both mechanical strength and flexibility to the plant
C) Conduction of water and minerals
D) Food storage only
Answer: B) Both mechanical strength and flexibility to the plant
Collenchyma is a living mechanical tissue whose cell walls are irregularly thickened with cellulose and pectin (mainly at corners). It provides flexibility along with support, allowing young stems to bend without breaking.
Q23. Sclerenchyma cells are:
A) Living cells with thin cellulose walls
B) Dead cells with walls thickened by lignin
C) Living cells with irregular wall thickening
D) Dead cells with walls thickened by pectin
Answer: B) Dead cells with walls thickened by lignin
Sclerenchyma cells are dead at maturity. Their walls are heavily thickened by lignin, making the plant body hard and stiff. The husk of a coconut is a familiar example of sclerenchymatous tissue.
Q24. The husk of a coconut is made of which tissue?
A) Parenchyma
B) Collenchyma
C) Sclerenchyma
D) Phloem fibres
Answer: C) Sclerenchyma
The tough, fibrous husk of a coconut is composed of sclerenchyma tissue. The long, dead lignified cells provide the extreme hardness and toughness characteristic of coconut husk fibres.
Q25. Chlorenchyma is a modified form of parenchyma that:
A) Stores large amounts of air for buoyancy
B) Contains chloroplasts and performs photosynthesis
C) Provides rigid mechanical support
D) Conducts water upward through the plant
Answer: B) Contains chloroplasts and performs photosynthesis
Chlorenchyma is parenchyma modified to contain chloroplasts. It is the primary site of photosynthesis and is abundantly found in the mesophyll of leaves.
Q26. Aerenchyma, which gives buoyancy to aquatic plants like water hyacinth, is a type of:
A) Sclerenchyma
B) Collenchyma
C) Parenchyma
D) Complex tissue
Answer: C) Parenchyma
Aerenchyma is parenchyma with large air-filled cavities. It is found in aquatic plants in the petioles and stems, providing buoyancy that allows plants like water hyacinth to float on the surface.
Q27. The cell wall thickening in collenchyma cells is mainly due to irregular deposition of:
A) Lignin
B) Suberin
C) Cellulose and pectin
D) Cutin
Answer: C) Cellulose and pectin
Collenchyma cell walls show irregular thickening, predominantly at corners, due to deposition of cellulose and pectin. Unlike sclerenchyma, collenchyma does not contain lignin, which is why it remains flexible.
Q28. Which of the following statements about sclerenchyma is INCORRECT?
A) Sclerenchyma cells are dead at maturity
B) Their walls are thickened by lignin
C) Sclerenchyma provides flexibility to young stems
D) Sclereids (stone cells) are a type of sclerenchyma
Answer: C) Sclerenchyma provides flexibility to young stems
Flexibility is provided by collenchyma, not sclerenchyma. Sclerenchyma is rigid and makes the plant body hard and stiff due to its lignin-thickened dead cell walls.
Q29. In which of the following are intercellular spaces absent?
A) Parenchyma
B) Aerenchyma
C) Sclerenchyma
D) Chlorenchyma
Answer: C) Sclerenchyma
Sclerenchyma cells are tightly packed with no intercellular spaces. Their heavily lignified walls leave no room between cells. Parenchyma and aerenchyma have abundant intercellular spaces.
Q30. Which simple permanent tissue is the living mechanical tissue present below the epidermis in herbaceous dicot stems?
A) Parenchyma
B) Sclerenchyma
C) Collenchyma
D) Aerenchyma
Answer: C) Collenchyma
Collenchyma is found just below the epidermis in herbaceous dicot stems and leaf stalks. It is the living mechanical tissue that provides support while still allowing growth and flexibility in young plant parts.
Q31. The outermost layer of cells on all plant organs, which forms a continuous covering, is called:
A) Endodermis
B) Cork
C) Epidermis
D) Pericycle
Answer: C) Epidermis
The epidermis is the outermost single layer of cells covering all parts of the plant. It protects the plant from water loss, mechanical injury, and infection. Root hairs are extensions of epidermal cells in roots.
Q32. Suberin in cork cells makes them:
A) Capable of photosynthesis
B) Impervious to water and gases
C) Flexible and elastic
D) Able to divide rapidly
Answer: B) Impervious to water and gases
Cork cells are dead and their walls are impregnated with suberin, a waxy substance that makes them impermeable to water and gases. Gas exchange in woody stems occurs through small pores called lenticels.
Questions on xylem and phloem, the vascular conducting tissues. See detailed notes on plant tissue systems.
Q33. Xylem and phloem are called complex tissues because:
A) They are found deep inside the plant
B) They are made of more than one type of cell
C) They perform very complex functions
D) They are present only in flowering plants
Answer: B) They are made of more than one type of cell
Complex tissues are composed of more than one type of cell, all working together to perform a common function. Xylem has tracheids, vessels, xylem parenchyma, and xylem fibres. Phloem has sieve tubes, companion cells, phloem parenchyma, and phloem fibres.
Q34. The dead element present in the phloem is:
A) Companion cells
B) Sieve tube cells
C) Phloem parenchyma
D) Phloem fibres
Answer: D) Phloem fibres
Phloem fibres (bast fibres) are the only dead component of phloem. Sieve tube cells, companion cells, and phloem parenchyma are all living. Phloem fibres provide mechanical support to the tissue.
Q35. Which cells of the phloem are primarily responsible for translocation of food (organic solutes) from leaves to other parts?
A) Phloem fibres
B) Phloem parenchyma
C) Sieve tube cells
D) Companion cells only
Answer: C) Sieve tube cells
Sieve tube cells are the main conducting elements of phloem. They have perforated cross walls (sieve plates) allowing flow of food materials. They are assisted by companion cells which regulate their activity.
Q36. Xylem tracheids differ from xylem vessels in that tracheids:
A) Are living at maturity
B) Have perforated end walls
C) Are elongated with pointed ends and no perforated cross walls
D) Are found only in angiosperms
Answer: C) Are elongated with pointed ends and no perforated cross walls
Tracheids are elongated dead cells with tapering (pointed) ends. Unlike vessels, they do not have perforated end walls — water passes through pits in the walls. Vessels are long tubes formed by cells whose end walls have dissolved.
Q37. The main water-conducting element in gymnosperms (e.g., pine, deodar) is:
A) Vessels
B) Companion cells
C) Tracheids
D) Sieve tubes
Answer: C) Tracheids
Gymnosperms (non-flowering plants like pines) generally lack vessels. Their water conduction relies entirely on tracheids. Vessels evolved later and are characteristic of most angiosperms (flowering plants).
Q38. A nail is hammered into a tree trunk at 1 metre above the ground. After 3 years, where will the nail be?
A) Higher up — it will have moved upward with tree growth
B) Lower down — it will have sunk
C) At the same height — 1 metre from the ground
D) It will have fallen out
Answer: C) At the same height — 1 metre from the ground
Trees grow in height only from the apical meristem at the tips. The trunk does not elongate — only the tip grows. The nail will remain at 1 metre from the ground. However, the girth of the trunk around the nail will increase (lateral meristem).
Q39. The main difference between xylem and phloem transport is:
A) Xylem transports food; phloem transports water
B) Xylem transports water and minerals upward; phloem transports food in both directions
C) Both transport water in the same direction
D) Xylem is living; phloem is mostly dead
Answer: B) Xylem transports water and minerals upward; phloem transports food in both directions
Xylem conducts water and dissolved minerals from roots to leaves (unidirectional, upward). Phloem translocates food (mainly sucrose) from leaves to all parts of the plant — both upward and downward (bidirectional).
Q40. Which of the following is a figure-based question? Study the image of xylem tissue (NCERT Fig. 3.5 — showing tracheid, vessel, xylem parenchyma, and xylem fibres). Which component would be absent in most gymnosperms?
A) Tracheids
B) Vessels
C) Xylem fibres
D) Xylem parenchyma
Answer: B) Vessels
Vessels are generally absent in gymnosperms. They are predominantly found in angiosperms (flowering plants). Gymnosperms rely mainly on tracheids for water conduction.
Questions on the four types of animal tissue. See detailed notes on epithelial tissue and connective tissue.
Q41. The epithelium lining the inner surface of the intestine, specialised for absorption of nutrients, is:
A) Squamous epithelium
B) Cuboidal epithelium
C) Columnar epithelium
D) Stratified squamous epithelium
Answer: C) Columnar epithelium
Columnar epithelium (pillar-like cells) lines the inner surface of the intestine. Its tall cells increase the surface area for absorption. Some columnar cells are modified into goblet cells that secrete mucus for lubrication.
Q42. The skin of humans is covered by which type of epithelium, which provides maximum protection from abrasion?
A) Simple cuboidal epithelium
B) Stratified squamous epithelium
C) Ciliated columnar epithelium
D) Glandular epithelium
Answer: B) Stratified squamous epithelium
The skin has multiple layers (stratified) of flat (squamous) cells. As outer cells wear away, new ones from the basal layer replace them. This multilayered arrangement provides maximum protection from mechanical wear and microbes.
Q43. Cuboidal epithelium is found in:
A) The inner lining of the intestine
B) Kidney tubules and ducts of salivary glands
C) Respiratory tract
D) The outer surface of the skin
Answer: B) Kidney tubules and ducts of salivary glands
Cuboidal epithelium (cube-shaped cells) lines kidney tubules and ducts of salivary glands. It provides mechanical support in these locations and is also involved in secretion and absorption.
Q44. Ciliated columnar epithelium is found in the respiratory tract. The function of cilia here is to:
A) Absorb oxygen from the air
B) Push dust particles and mucus away from the lungs
C) Produce digestive enzymes
D) Regulate gas exchange
Answer: B) Push dust particles and mucus away from the lungs
Hair-like cilia on columnar cells of the respiratory tract beat in coordinated waves to sweep dust, debris, and mucus upward toward the throat, keeping the lungs clean — a crucial protective mechanism.
Q45. Which connective tissue fills the space inside organs, helps in repair of tissues, and supports internal organs?
A) Adipose tissue
B) Areolar tissue
C) Dense connective tissue
D) Cartilage
Answer: B) Areolar tissue
Areolar connective tissue is a simple connective tissue found between skin and muscles, around blood vessels and nerves. It fills space, supports internal organs, and provides materials for tissue repair after injury.
Q46. The matrix of bone is composed of:
A) Proteins and sugars only
B) Calcium and phosphorus compounds
C) Collagen fibres only
D) Fluid plasma with dissolved salts
Answer: B) Calcium and phosphorus compounds
Bone cells (osteocytes) are embedded in a hard matrix rich in calcium and phosphorus compounds (mainly calcium phosphate and calcium carbonate). This mineral matrix makes bone the hardest connective tissue in the body.
Q47. Cartilage differs from bone in that cartilage has:
A) A hard mineralised matrix
B) A solid but flexible matrix made of proteins and sugars
C) Osteocytes embedded in it
D) No intercellular matrix at all
Answer: B) A solid but flexible matrix made of proteins and sugars
Cartilage has a solid but flexible matrix composed of proteins and sugars (chondroitin). Unlike bone, it contains no calcium salts, which is why it is flexible. Cartilage cells (chondrocytes) are scattered in groups of 1–4 in fluid-filled spaces called lacunae.
Q48. Blood is classified as a connective tissue because:
A) Blood flows and connects all organs
B) Blood cells are loosely spaced in a fluid intercellular matrix (plasma)
C) Blood has no cells — only plasma
D) Blood connects muscles to bones
Answer: B) Blood cells are loosely spaced in a fluid intercellular matrix (plasma)
Blood is a fluid connective tissue. RBCs, WBCs, and platelets are loosely suspended in plasma (the liquid matrix). The defining feature of connective tissue — cells in a matrix — applies here with plasma as the fluid matrix.
Q49. Tendons connect muscles to bones and are made of:
A) Loose areolar connective tissue
B) Dense regular connective tissue (white fibrous)
C) Yellow elastic connective tissue
D) Adipose connective tissue
Answer: B) Dense regular connective tissue (white fibrous)
Tendons are made of dense regular connective tissue — white collagen fibres run in parallel bundles, making tendons strong but inextensible. This allows precise force transmission from muscle to bone. Ligaments, which connect bone to bone, are made of yellow elastic tissue.
Q50. Adipose tissue is found beneath the skin and around organs. Its primary functions include:
A) Transmitting nerve impulses
B) Storage of fat, insulation, and cushioning organs
C) Secreting digestive enzymes
D) Producing red blood cells
Answer: B) Storage of fat, insulation, and cushioning organs
Adipose tissue is composed of adipocytes (fat cells) that store fat globules. It acts as an energy reserve, provides thermal insulation, cushions vital organs against mechanical shock, and helps maintain body contours.
Q51. Which of the following statements about ligaments is CORRECT?
A) Ligaments connect muscle to bone
B) Ligaments are made of white non-flexible collagen fibres
C) Ligaments connect bone to bone and are made of yellow elastic fibres
D) Ligaments are a type of epithelial tissue
Answer: C) Ligaments connect bone to bone and are made of yellow elastic fibres
Ligaments are dense, cord-like fibrous connective tissue that binds two bones together at a joint. They contain yellow elastin fibres, making them strong yet slightly elastic, allowing controlled joint movement.
Q52. The maximum intercellular substance (matrix) is found in which tissue?
A) Epithelial tissue
B) Muscular tissue
C) Connective tissue
D) Nervous tissue
Answer: C) Connective tissue
Connective tissue is characterised by abundant intercellular matrix (which may be jelly-like, fluid, dense, or rigid). The cells of connective tissue are loosely spaced within this matrix, unlike epithelial tissue where cells are tightly packed with almost no matrix.
Questions on the three types of muscle and the structure of neurons. See muscular tissue and nervous tissue notes.
Q53. Skeletal (striated) muscles are called voluntary muscles because:
A) They contract on their own without any stimulus
B) Their contraction is under conscious control of the will
C) They never get tired
D) They are found only in the heart
Answer: B) Their contraction is under conscious control of the will
Skeletal muscles are attached to bones and their movement is under voluntary (conscious) control. They show alternating light and dark bands (striations), are long, cylindrical, multinucleate, and unbranched.
Q54. Which structural feature uniquely identifies cardiac muscle cells?
A) They are very long and multinucleate
B) They are spindle-shaped and uninucleate
C) They are cylindrical, branched, uninucleate, with intercalated discs
D) They are flat and arranged in sheets
Answer: C) They are cylindrical, branched, uninucleate, with intercalated discs
Cardiac muscle cells are short, cylindrical, branched, and uninucleate. The branches of adjacent cells are joined by specialised junctions called intercalated discs, which allow rapid electrical conduction so all heart muscle cells contract as one unit (syncytium).
Q55. Smooth (unstriated) muscles are described as involuntary because:
A) They are found attached to bones
B) They contract very rapidly
C) Their action cannot be consciously controlled
D) They contain intercalated discs
Answer: C) Their action cannot be consciously controlled
Smooth muscles (found in walls of internal organs — intestines, blood vessels, uterus, iris of eye) contract and relax without conscious control. They are spindle-shaped, uninucleate cells with no striations.
Q56. Cardiac muscle is immune to fatigue because:
A) It contracts very slowly
B) It has a very rich blood supply and specialized energy metabolism
C) It does not need oxygen
D) It is voluntary and rests when we sleep
Answer: B) It has a very rich blood supply and specialized energy metabolism
Cardiac muscle works continuously (about 70 contractions per minute throughout life) without fatigue. This is possible because of its exceptionally rich blood supply via coronary arteries and its ability to use multiple energy substrates efficiently.
Q57. Nissl's granules (Nissl bodies) are characteristic of which cells?
A) Bone cells (osteocytes)
B) Nerve cells (neurons)
C) Muscle cells (myocytes)
D) Blood cells (erythrocytes)
Answer: B) Nerve cells (neurons)
Nissl's granules are clusters of rough endoplasmic reticulum (with ribosomes) found in the cyton (cell body) of neurons. They are used in the synthesis of proteins needed for nerve cell functioning and regeneration.
Q58. The long fibre of a neuron that carries nerve impulses away from the cell body is called:
A) Dendrite
B) Cyton
C) Axon
D) Synapse
Answer: C) Axon
A neuron has three parts: cyton (cell body), dendrites (short projections that receive impulses), and axon (a long single process that carries impulses away from the cell body to other neurons or effector organs). See nervous tissue for a labelled neuron diagram.
Q59. The junction between two neurons where an impulse is passed from one to the next is called:
A) Dendrite
B) Synapse
C) Axon terminal
D) Nissl body
Answer: B) Synapse
A synapse is the tiny gap between the axon terminal of one neuron and the dendrite of the next neuron (or a muscle cell). Nerve impulses cross this gap via chemical messengers called neurotransmitters.
Q60. Which tissue forms glands (such as sweat glands and mucus-secreting glands)?
A) Connective tissue
B) Muscular tissue
C) Epithelial tissue
D) Nervous tissue
Answer: C) Epithelial tissue
Glandular epithelium is a specialised form of epithelial tissue. Some columnar epithelial cells acquire additional specialisation as secretory (gland) cells, producing substances at the epithelial surface. Sometimes a portion of epithelial tissue folds inward to form a multicellular gland.
Q61. Study the diagram of a neuron (NCERT Fig. — showing cyton, dendrites, axon, myelin sheath, nodes of Ranvier). Which part of the neuron is responsible for receiving incoming signals?
A) Axon
B) Myelin sheath
C) Dendrites
D) Axon terminal
Answer: C) Dendrites
Dendrites are the short, branched extensions of the neuron cell body (cyton) that receive incoming nerve impulses from other neurons or sensory receptors. The impulse then travels along the axon to the next neuron.
Q62. The contractile proteins found in muscle tissue that are responsible for muscle contraction are:
A) Haemoglobin and myoglobin
B) Actin and myosin
C) Collagen and elastin
D) Fibrin and fibrinogen
Answer: B) Actin and myosin
Muscle fibres contain special proteins called actin (thin filaments) and myosin (thick filaments). During muscle contraction, myosin heads pull the actin filaments inward, shortening the muscle — this is the basis of the sliding filament theory.
Questions on bones, joints, and care of the musculoskeletal system. See musculoskeletal system notes and yoga and musculoskeletal health.
Q63. The musculoskeletal system is made up of:
A) Bones and blood only
B) Bones, muscles, and joints working together
C) Muscles and nerves only
D) Bones and cartilage only
Answer: B) Bones, muscles, and joints working together
The musculoskeletal system gives the body its shape, support, and movement. Bones provide the framework, joints are the meeting points between bones, and muscles attached via tendons produce movement by pulling on bones.
Q64. A ball and socket joint (like the hip or shoulder) allows:
A) Movement in one plane only (like a door hinge)
B) Rotation around a single axis only
C) Movement in all directions, including rotation
D) No movement at all
Answer: C) Movement in all directions, including rotation
Ball and socket joints allow the greatest range of movement — forward, backward, sideways, and rotational (360°). The rounded head of one bone fits into the cup-shaped cavity of another. Examples: hip joint, shoulder joint.
Q65. When a person suffers a sprain (as in a twisted ankle), the structure most likely overstretched or torn is:
A) Tendons connecting muscle to bone
B) Ligaments connecting bone to bone
C) Articular cartilage
D) The bone itself
Answer: B) Ligaments connecting bone to bone
A sprain results from overstretching or partial tearing of ligaments at a joint. Ligaments are slightly elastic but not designed for extreme stretching. A strain, by contrast, involves muscle or tendon injury.
Q66. In the RICE protocol for treating a musculoskeletal injury, "E" stands for:
A) Exercise
B) Elevation
C) Examination
D) Electrotherapy
Answer: B) Elevation
RICE = Rest (stop activity), Ice (reduce swelling), Compression (bandage to limit swelling), Elevation (raise the injured limb above heart level to reduce swelling by gravity). This first-aid protocol is used for sprains, strains, and soft tissue injuries.
Q67. Synovial fluid in movable joints acts as:
A) A bone-forming substance
B) A lubricant that reduces friction between bone surfaces
C) A muscle-strengthening fluid
D) A nerve-protecting substance
Answer: B) A lubricant that reduces friction between bone surfaces
Synovial fluid is secreted by the synovial membrane lining freely movable (synovial) joints. It lubricates the cartilage surfaces, reduces friction during movement, and absorbs shock. If it dries up or is absent, bones rub against each other causing pain (arthritis).
Direction: In each question below, an Assertion (A) and a Reason (R) are given. Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true but R is false.
(d) A is false but R is true.
AR1.
Assertion (A): Meristematic cells have dense cytoplasm, thin walls, and prominent nuclei but lack large vacuoles.
Reason (R): Meristematic cells are actively dividing and do not need to store water or nutrients in vacuoles.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
Vacuoles develop as cells mature and become permanent. In actively dividing meristematic cells, the primary activity is cell division, not storage, so vacuoles are absent.
AR2.
Assertion (A): Sclerenchyma tissue makes the plant body hard and rigid.
Reason (R): Sclerenchyma cells are dead at maturity with walls thickened by lignin.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
The heavy lignin deposition in sclerenchyma cell walls makes the cells dead at maturity and gives the plant rigid, hard mechanical support — exactly as seen in coconut husk and nutshells.
AR3.
Assertion (A): Parenchyma tissue is called non-living or dead tissue.
Reason (R): Parenchyma cells have thin walls and large intercellular spaces.
Answer: (d) A is false but R is true
Parenchyma is a living tissue — its cells are alive at maturity. Only sclerenchyma cells are dead. The reason (R) correctly describes parenchyma's structural features, but the assertion (A) is factually wrong.
AR4.
Assertion (A): Xylem and phloem are called complex tissues.
Reason (R): They are made of more than one type of cell, all coordinating to perform a common function.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
Xylem (tracheids, vessels, xylem parenchyma, xylem fibres) and phloem (sieve tubes, companion cells, phloem parenchyma, phloem fibres) are each composed of several cell types working together — hence they are "complex" tissues.
AR5.
Assertion (A): Cardiac muscle does not get fatigued even after continuous contraction throughout life.
Reason (R): Cardiac muscle is voluntary and can rest when we are asleep.
Answer: (c) A is true but R is false
The assertion is correct — cardiac muscle is fatigue-resistant. However, the reason is wrong: cardiac muscle is involuntary (not voluntary) and it does NOT rest — the heart beats continuously day and night without stopping.
AR6.
Assertion (A): Stratified squamous epithelium is found in areas of the body subject to regular wear and tear.
Reason (R): As outer cells are sloughed off, new layers form from the basal layer of the epithelium.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
Stratified squamous epithelium (skin, mouth lining) is ideally suited for high-wear areas because its multiple layers are continuously replaced from below. This ongoing renewal maintains an intact protective barrier.
AR7.
Assertion (A): Ligaments connect muscles to bones.
Reason (R): Ligaments are made of yellow elastic fibres and are found at joints.
Answer: (d) A is false but R is true
The assertion is wrong: tendons connect muscles to bones, not ligaments. Ligaments connect bone to bone. The reason (R) is correct — ligaments are indeed made of yellow elastic fibres found at joints.
AR8.
Assertion (A): Blood is classified as a connective tissue.
Reason (R): Blood cells (RBCs, WBCs, platelets) are loosely suspended in a fluid intercellular matrix called plasma.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
All connective tissues have cells embedded in a matrix. In blood, cells float in plasma (the matrix). The presence of a fluid matrix with loosely spaced cells qualifies blood as a fluid connective tissue.
AR9.
Assertion (A): Plant growth is indeterminate.
Reason (R): Plants have meristematic tissue that continues to divide throughout the plant's life.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
Because meristematic cells keep dividing throughout the plant's life, plants can grow indefinitely — this is the definition of indeterminate growth. The persistent meristems at root and shoot tips ensure continuous growth.
AR10.
Assertion (A): The inner lining of the intestine has columnar epithelium while the skin has stratified squamous epithelium.
Reason (R): The type of epithelium in a location reflects the functional requirement — absorption in intestine, protection in skin.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
Structure always reflects function. Tall columnar cells maximize surface area for absorption in intestine. Multilayered squamous cells withstand constant friction and abrasion on the skin. This is a fundamental principle of tissue biology.
AR11.
Assertion (A): Collenchyma allows the bending of stems of climbers (like tendril-bearing plants) without breaking.
Reason (R): Collenchyma is a living mechanical tissue with irregularly thickened cell walls of cellulose and pectin that provide both strength and flexibility.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
Collenchyma is the ideal mechanical tissue for growing or flexible plant parts because it is living, can grow with the plant, and its cellulose-pectin thickening gives support without the brittleness that lignified sclerenchyma would bring.
AR12.
Assertion (A): Bones alone produce movement in the body.
Reason (R): Muscles contract and pull on bones with the help of tendons to produce movement.
Answer: (d) A is false but R is true
Bones alone cannot produce movement — they are passive levers. It is the muscles that contract (via tendons attached to bones) that actually generate movement. The reason correctly describes the mechanism of movement.
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