Which of the following statements are the functions of a medullary ray in plants ?
(i) Absorption
(ii) Secondary growth
(iii) Transmission of water and food
(iv) Seat of origin or inter-fascicular cambium

Options

A. (i), (ii) and (iii)
B. (i), (ii) and (iv)
C. (ii), (iii) and (iv)
D. Only (i) and (iii)

Answer

To determine the functions of medullary rays in plants, we will analyze each statement provided in the question.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Evaluate Statement (i): Absorption**
- Medullary rays are not involved in the absorption of water and nutrients. Absorption primarily occurs through root hairs in the roots. Therefore, this statement is **incorrect**.

2. **Evaluate Statement (ii): Secondary Growth**
- Medullary rays play a role in secondary growth. They contribute to the increase in girth of the plant by facilitating the formation of secondary vascular tissues. This statement is **correct**.

3. **Evaluate Statement (iii): Transmission of Water and Food**
- Medullary rays assist in the radial conduction of water and nutrients between the xylem and phloem. They help in the transmission of food and water in a radial direction, making this statement **correct**.

4. **Evaluate Statement (iv): Seat of Origin or Inter-fascicular Cambium**
- Medullary rays are indeed the site from which the interfascicular cambium arises. The cells of the medullary rays can differentiate into cambial cells, contributing to secondary growth. Hence, this statement is also **correct**.

### Conclusion:
Based on the evaluation:
- The correct statements regarding the functions of medullary rays are:
- (ii) Secondary growth
- (iii) Transmission of water and food
- (iv) Seat of origin or inter-fascicular cambium

Thus, the correct options are (ii), (iii), and (iv).