In virus-infected plants the meristematic tissues in both apical and axillary buds are free of virus because

Options

A. the dividing cells virus resistant
B. meristems have anti viral compounds
C. the cell division of meristem are faster than the rate of viral multiplication
D. viruses cannot multiply within meristem cells

Answer

To solve the question regarding why meristematic tissues in both apical and axillary buds of virus-infected plants are free of the virus, we can break it down into the following steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Meristematic Tissue**:
- Meristematic tissues are composed of undifferentiated cells that have the ability to divide continuously. They are primarily located in regions of active growth, such as the apical and axillary buds of plants.

2. **Location of Apical and Axillary Buds**:
- The apical bud is located at the topmost part of the plant, while axillary buds are found in the axils of leaves. Both types of buds contain meristematic tissues that contribute to the growth of the plant.

3. **Viral Infection in Plants**:
- Viruses typically infect plant cells and replicate within them. However, the rate of viral multiplication can vary depending on the type of cells and their activity.

4. **Cell Division vs. Viral Multiplication**:
- In meristematic tissues, the rate of cell division is very high. This rapid division means that new cells are continuously being formed, which can outpace the rate at which the virus can replicate.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Since the rate of cell division in meristematic tissues is faster than the rate of viral multiplication, the newly formed cells are not infected by the virus. This is why the meristematic tissues in the apical and axillary buds remain free of the virus.

6. **Correct Answer**:
- Therefore, the correct option is: "The cell division of meristematic tissues is faster than the rate of viral multiplication."