NEETBotanyEcosystem
Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R). Assertion (A): In an ecosystem, the net primary productivity (NPP) is always greater than the gross primary productivity (GPP). Reason (R): A considerable amount of gross primary productivity is utilized by plants in respiration. In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the op
Options
- ABoth Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
- BBoth Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
- CAssertion is true but Reason is false.
- DAssertion is false but Reason is true.
Correct answer
D. Assertion is false but Reason is true.
Step-by-step solution
Assertion (A) is false because gross primary productivity (GPP) is the total rate of production of organic matter during photosynthesis, while net primary productivity (NPP) is the biomass remaining after respiratory losses (R) are deducted (NPP = GPP - R). Since respiration is always positive, GPP is always greater than NPP. Reason (R) is true as plants utilize a considerable amount of the synthesized organic matter (GPP) for their own cellular respiration. Therefore, Assertion is false but Reason is true. Answer: