Identify each of the following structures as haploid or diploid.
a. Sporophyte
b. Spore
c. Gametophyte
d. Zygote

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definitions: Haploid cells contain one set of chromosomes (n), while diploid cells contain two sets of chromosomes (2n).
2. Identify the sporophyte: In the life cycle of plants, the sporophyte is the diploid phase that produces spores through meiosis.
3. Identify the spore: Spores are haploid cells produced by the sporophyte that can develop into a gametophyte.
4. Identify the gametophyte: The gametophyte is the haploid phase that produces gametes through mitosis.
5. Identify the zygote: The zygote is formed when two gametes fuse during fertilization, resulting in a diploid cell.

Key Concepts

Haploid vs Diploid

Haploid cells contain one complete set of chromosomes, denoted as 'n', while diploid cells have two sets, denoted as '2n'. In the life cycle of plants, haploid cells are involved in gamete formation, whereas diploid cells are involved in growth and development. Understanding these terms is crucial for identifying the ploidy level of different plant structures.

Plant Life Cycle

The plant life cycle alternates between two generations: the haploid gametophyte and the diploid sporophyte. The gametophyte produces gametes through mitosis, while the sporophyte arises from the fusion of gametes, forming a zygote. This alternation of generations is fundamental to understanding the roles and ploidy of plant structures like sporophytes and gametophytes.

Sporophyte and Gametophyte

Sporophytes are the diploid phase in the plant life cycle, responsible for producing spores through meiosis. Gametophytes are the haploid phase, generating gametes through mitosis. Recognizing the ploidy of these structures helps in identifying their roles in reproduction and development within the plant life cycle.