Apical, intercalary and lateral meristems are differentiated on the basis of

Options

A. development
B. origin
C. function
D. position

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Meristems**:
- Meristems are specialized tissues in plants that have the ability to divide and contribute to growth. They are crucial for the development of young plants into mature ones.

2. **Types of Meristems**:
- There are three main types of meristems: apical, intercalary, and lateral. Each type has a specific role in plant growth.

3. **Differentiation Based on Position**:
- The differentiation of apical, intercalary, and lateral meristems is primarily based on their position in the plant.
- **Apical Meristems**: Located at the tips of roots and shoots, they are responsible for increasing the height of the plant.
- **Intercalary Meristems**: Found at the internodes (the regions between the nodes), they help in increasing the length of the plant.
- **Lateral Meristems**: Located in the mature regions of roots and shoots, they contribute to the increase in the width or girth of the plant.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the correct answer to the question is that apical, intercalary, and lateral meristems are differentiated on the basis of their **position** within the plant.