Shoot apex is subterminal in position because it is covered by leaf primordia.

Answer

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Terminology**: The term "shoot apex" refers to the growing tip of a plant shoot, which is responsible for the growth and development of new leaves and stems. The term "subterminal" suggests a position that is not at the very tip but slightly below it.

2. **Analyzing the Statement**: The statement claims that the shoot apex is subterminal because it is covered by leaf primordia. This implies that the presence of leaf primordia (the early stages of leaf development) somehow affects the position of the shoot apex.

3. **Determining the Correct Position of the Shoot Apex**: The shoot apex is actually terminal in position. This means it is located at the very tip of the shoot, not below it. The shoot apex is the highest point of the plant shoot where growth occurs.

4. **Role of Leaf Primordia**: While it is true that leaf primordia are present at the shoot apex, they do not change the terminal position of the shoot apex. Instead, they are new growths that develop from the shoot apical meristem (SAM), which is located at the apex.

5. **Understanding Phototropism and Geotropism**: The shoot apex exhibits positive phototropism (growing towards light) and negative geotropism (growing away from gravity). This behavior helps the shoot grow upwards towards light, reinforcing its terminal position.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the statement that the shoot apex is subterminal because it is covered by leaf primordia is false. The shoot apex is terminal in position, while the root apex is the one that can be considered subterminal.

**Final Answer**: The statement is false; the shoot apex is terminal in position, not subterminal.

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