Select incorrect statement for Sclerenchyma:

Options

A. Provide flexibility and elasticity
B. Mechanical support
C. Low refractive index
D. Have secondary wall thickening

Answer

To solve the question regarding the incorrect statement for sclerenchyma, we will analyze the statements provided about sclerenchyma and determine which one is incorrect.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Sclerenchyma**:
- Sclerenchyma is one of the three types of ground tissue in plants, alongside parenchyma and collenchyma. It is primarily responsible for providing structural support.

2. **Characteristics of Sclerenchyma**:
- Sclerenchyma cells are typically dead at maturity, meaning they do not have living protoplasts.
- They are characterized by their long, thin, and narrow shape.
- The cell walls of sclerenchyma cells are thickened and often lignified, which contributes to their rigidity.

3. **Functions of Sclerenchyma**:
- The primary function of sclerenchyma is to provide mechanical support and strength to the plant. This is crucial for the plant's structural integrity.

4. **Analyzing the Statements**:
- **Option A**: Claims that sclerenchyma provides flexibility and elasticity. This is incorrect because flexibility and elasticity are characteristics of collenchyma, not sclerenchyma.
- **Option B**: States that sclerenchyma makes the plant hard and stiff, which is correct.
- **Option C**: Mentions that sclerenchyma has a low refractive index, which is also correct.
- **Option D**: Indicates that sclerenchyma has secondary wall thickening, which is true.

5. **Conclusion**:
- The incorrect statement regarding sclerenchyma is **Option A**, as it incorrectly describes the function of sclerenchyma.

### Final Answer:
The incorrect statement for sclerenchyma is **Option A**: "It provides flexibility and elasticity."

---