Assertion: Plants obtain molybdenum in the form of molybdate ions `(MoO_(4)^(2+))`
Reason: Molybdenum is a component of pollen germination, cell elongation and cell differentiation.

Options

A. (a) Both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion
B. (b) Both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion
C. (c) Assertion is true but reason is false
D. (d) Both assertion and reason are false

Explanation

To solve the assertion and reason question, we will analyze both statements separately to determine their validity.

### Step 1: Analyze the Assertion
The assertion states that "Plants obtain molybdenum in the form of molybdate ions (MoO₄²⁻)."

- Molybdenum is indeed an essential micronutrient for plants, but it is absorbed in the form of molybdate ions. However, the correct molecular formula for molybdate ions is MoO₄²⁻, which is accurate. Therefore, the assertion is **true**.

### Step 2: Analyze the Reason
The reason states that "Molybdenum is a component of pollen germination, cell elongation, and cell differentiation."

- While molybdenum is important for certain enzymatic functions in plants, it is not directly involved in pollen germination, cell elongation, or cell differentiation. These processes are primarily influenced by plant hormones such as auxins, gibberellins, and cytokinins. Therefore, the reason is **false**.

### Step 3: Conclusion
Based on the analysis:
- The assertion is **true** (plants obtain molybdenum as molybdate ions).
- The reason is **false** (molybdenum is not directly involved in pollen germination, cell elongation, or cell differentiation).

### Final Answer
The correct option is: **Option C** - Assertion is true, but reason is false.

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