Read the following statements with respect to dicot stem and select the right choice .
i. The epidermis is covered with a thick layer of cuticle .
ii. The cells of endodermis are rich in starch grains.
iii. The pericycle is present on the inner side of endodermis and above the phloem in the of semilunar patches of sclerenchyma.
iv. The vascular bundles are arranged in a ring .

Options

A. iii and iv are incorrect
B. i ,ii and iv are incorrect
C. i, ii and iii are correct
D. ii ,iii, and iv are correct

Answer

To determine the correct statements regarding the anatomy of a dicot stem, we will analyze each statement one by one.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Statement i: The epidermis is covered with a thick layer of cuticle.**
- The epidermis is indeed the outermost layer of the dicot stem, but it is covered with a **thin layer of cuticle**. A thick cuticle would hinder gas exchange and water absorption, which is essential for the plant's survival. Therefore, this statement is **incorrect**.

2. **Statement ii: The cells of endodermis are rich in starch grains.**
- The endodermis is the innermost layer of the cortex in dicot stems and is known to be rich in starch grains. This characteristic is why it is often referred to as the **starch sheath**. Thus, this statement is **correct**.

3. **Statement iii: The pericycle is present on the inner side of endodermis and above the phloem in the form of semilunar patches of sclerenchyma.**
- The pericycle is indeed located just inside the endodermis and can be found in patches, often associated with sclerenchyma cells. This statement is also **correct**.

4. **Statement iv: The vascular bundles are arranged in a ring.**
- In dicot stems, the vascular bundles are arranged in a **ring formation**, which is a distinguishing feature compared to monocots where they are scattered. Therefore, this statement is **correct**.

### Conclusion:
- The correct statements regarding the anatomy of a dicot stem are:
- Statement ii: Correct
- Statement iii: Correct
- Statement iv: Correct
- Statement i: Incorrect

### Final Answer:
The right choice includes statements ii, iii, and iv.

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