Chief sink of mineral elements are

Options

A. bark
B. ripe fruits
C. senescent leaves
D. lateral meristems

Answer

To determine the chief sink of mineral elements in plants, we need to analyze the options provided and understand the concept of sinks in plant nutrition.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Concept of Sinks**:
- In plant biology, a "sink" refers to a part of the plant where nutrients and minerals are utilized for growth. This is typically where active cell division and growth occur.

2. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **A. Bark**: Bark is the outer protective layer of the plant. It does not actively grow or divide cells; therefore, it is not a chief sink.
- **B. Ripe Fruits**: Ripe fruits have already completed their growth phase. While they may store nutrients, they do not actively utilize minerals for growth, making them an unsuitable choice for a chief sink.
- **C. Senescent Leaves**: Senescent leaves are aging leaves that are in the process of dying. They do not contribute to growth and therefore cannot be considered a chief sink.
- **D. Lateral Meristem**: Lateral meristems are regions of active cell division that contribute to the growth in thickness of the plant. They are involved in the formation of new tissues and are thus a significant site for mineral utilization.

3. **Identifying the Correct Answer**:
- Among the options, the only one that represents an area of active growth and mineral utilization is **D. Lateral Meristem**. This is where rapid cell division occurs, making it the chief sink for mineral elements.

### Conclusion:
The chief sink of mineral elements is **D. Lateral Meristem**.

---