The growth phase of an organism before attaining sexual maturity is referred to as

Options

A. juvenile phase
B. vegetative phase
C. both 1 and2
D. none of these

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks for the term that describes the growth phase of an organism before it reaches sexual maturity. This phase is crucial as it signifies the period of development leading up to the ability to reproduce.

2. **Identifying Growth Phases**: In biological terms, all organisms, whether unicellular or multicellular, undergo a growth phase after birth. This phase continues until the organism reaches sexual maturity, which is the stage where it can reproduce.

3. **Differentiating Between Organisms**:
- In animals, this growth phase is specifically referred to as the **Juvenile phase**.
- In plants, the equivalent phase is known as the **Vegetative phase**.

4. **Analyzing the Options**:
- Option A: Juvenile phase - This is correct for animals.
- Option B: Vegetative phase - This is correct for plants.
- Option C: Both 1 and 2 - This is correct because both terms are applicable to different types of organisms.
- Option D: None of the above - This is incorrect as both juvenile and vegetative phases are valid terms.

5. **Conclusion**: The correct answer to the question is **Option C: both 1 and 2**, as it encompasses both the juvenile phase in animals and the vegetative phase in plants.

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