There is no alternation of generation in Escherichia coli because of the absence of
(a) Syngamy
(b) Reduction division
(c) Conjugation
(d) Both a & b

Options

A. Syngamy
B. Reduction division
C. Conjugation
D. Both (1) & (2)

Answer

To answer the question regarding why there is no alternation of generation in Escherichia coli, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the concept of alternation of generations
- Alternation of generations is a biological process where organisms alternate between a haploid (gametophyte) and a diploid (sporophyte) phase. This process is common in many plants and some algae.

### Step 2: Identify the role of meiosis in alternation of generations
- Meiosis, also known as reduction division, is crucial for the alternation of generations. It reduces the chromosome number by half, creating haploid gametes from diploid cells. This allows for the formation of a gametophyte generation.

### Step 3: Analyze Escherichia coli's reproductive process
- Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a prokaryotic organism that primarily reproduces asexually through binary fission. It does not undergo meiosis, which means it does not have a diploid phase or the necessary reduction division to facilitate alternation of generations.

### Step 4: Evaluate the options provided in the question
- (a) Syngamy: This refers to the fusion of gametes, which is not relevant to E. coli since it does not have a gametic phase.
- (b) Reduction division: This is essential for alternation of generations, and since E. coli does not undergo meiosis, this option is a key reason for the absence of alternation of generations.
- (c) Conjugation: While E. coli can undergo conjugation (a form of genetic exchange), it is not related to the alternation of generations.
- (d) Both a & b: Since syngamy is not applicable, this option is incorrect.

### Conclusion
The correct answer is (b) Reduction division, as the absence of meiosis in E. coli is the primary reason for the lack of alternation of generations.

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