What is the main function of a fruit in flowering plants?

• A. To perform photosynthesis
• B. To protect and aid in the dispersal of seeds
• C. To anchor the plant in the ground
• D. To absorb water and minerals from the soil

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of a fruit in the life cycle of flowering plants. Fruits develop from the ovary of a flower after fertilization and contain seeds, which are the plant's reproductive units.
2. Step 2: Recognize that the primary function of a fruit is to protect the seeds during their development. The fruit acts as a barrier against environmental stress and predators.
3. Step 3: Learn that fruits also play a crucial role in seed dispersal. They often have adaptations such as being fleshy, having hooks, or being lightweight to facilitate dispersal by animals, wind, or water.
4. Step 4: Eliminate incorrect options by analyzing their relevance to the function of fruits. For example, photosynthesis is performed by leaves, anchoring the plant is the role of roots, and absorbing water and minerals is also a root function.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is 'To protect and aid in the dispersal of seeds,' as this aligns with the biological function of fruits in flowering plants.