Question

Leaves may be simple or compound. Which of the given figures show(s) compound leaves?

A. a only
B. b, c and d only
C. a and d only
D. All of these

Answer 1

Single leaves that can not further subdivide into leaflets are called simple leaves. With the help of a petiole or stem, these leaves attach to a twig. Compound leaves are those which can divide to the mid-vein and form multiple leaflets or blades on a common rachis. The leaf blade is undifferentiated into lobes in simple leaves whereas Leaves which show proper differentiation of lamina or leaf blade into leaflets.

Complete answer:
In the above given figures, figure-a is a single leaf that is attached to a stem. It does not further divide into multiple leaflets. This suggests that figure-a is a simple leaf.
Figure-b shows multiple leaflets arising from a common rachis or stem. This suggests that figure-b is a compound leaf.
Figure-c also shows multiple leaflets arising from common rachis or stem. Hence figure-c also shows a compound leaf.
Figure-d shows small, multiple leaflets arising from common rachis, which then is connected to a common branch. Hence figure-d also shows a compound leaf.
Option A) a only: The figure-a is a simple leaf as explained above.
Hence option A is not correct.
Option B) b, c and d only: As said above, figures b, c and d shown here are compound leaves.
Hence option B is the correct answer.
Option C) a and d only: Figure-a is a simple leaf and figure-d is a compound leaf.
Hence option C is not correct.
Option D) All of these: Since figure-a is not a compound leaf.
So, option D is not correct.

Hence, Option B) b, c and d only are correct answers.

Note:
Hibiscus , Maples, Oregano, pear plants and Sycamore are some common plants that have simple leaves. Neem, Rose and Baobab are some plants that exhibit compound leaves. Leaf arrangement in simple leaf is of Acropetal succession whereas Acropetal succession type of arrangement of leaflets is not observed in compound leave