Which is the female sex organ in a flower?

Options

A. Pistil
B. Stamen
C. Carpel
D. both 1 and 3

Answer

To answer the question "Which is the female sex organ in a flower?", we will follow these steps:

### Step 1: Identify the reproductive structures in a flower
In flowering plants (angiosperms), the reproductive structures are divided into male and female organs. The male reproductive organ is called the stamen, while the female reproductive organ is called the pistil.

### Step 2: Define the pistil
The pistil is the female reproductive structure in a flower. It is made up of three main parts:
- **Stigma**: The sticky top part that receives pollen.
- **Style**: The slender stalk that connects the stigma to the ovary.
- **Ovary**: The swollen base that contains the ovules (which develop into seeds after fertilization).

### Step 3: Identify the carpel
The term "carpel" is often used interchangeably with "pistil." A carpel can be a single unit or multiple carpels can fuse together to form a compound pistil. The carpel is also considered part of the female reproductive system.

### Step 4: Conclusion
Therefore, the female sex organ in a flower is the **pistil**, which includes the stigma, style, and ovary. The carpel, which is synonymous with the pistil, is also part of the female reproductive system.

### Final Answer
The female sex organ in a flower is the **pistil** (which includes the stigma, style, and ovary).

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