The optimum pH of a typical nutrient medium for plant tissue culture is

Options

A. 2.5
B. 5.7
C. 7
D. 7.8

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Plant Tissue Culture**: Plant tissue culture is a technique used to grow plant cells or tissues (explants) in a controlled environment using a nutrient medium.

2. **Importance of pH**: The pH of the nutrient medium is crucial for the growth of plant tissues. It affects nutrient availability and overall growth.

3. **pH Scale Overview**: The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is neutral, below 7 is acidic, and above 7 is basic.

4. **Optimum pH Range**: For plant tissue culture, the optimum pH is typically between 5 and 6. This range is slightly acidic, which is conducive for plant growth.

5. **Effects of pH Levels**:
- If the pH is higher than 7 (basic), or lower than 4.5 (highly acidic), the growth of plant cells in the medium is inhibited.
- A pH above 6 can lead to a hard appearance of the medium, which is not favorable for growth.
- A pH of 5 is too low for gelling of the medium, which is also undesirable.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the optimum pH for a typical nutrient medium for plant tissue culture is between 5 and 6.

**Final Answer**: The optimum pH of a typical nutrient medium for plant tissue culture is between 5 and 6.

---