Which of the following statements is true?

Options

A. Spores are always diploid.
B. Spores and gametes are diploid.
C. Gametes are always haploid.
D. Spores are gametes.

Answer

To determine which statement is true, let's analyze each option step by step:

1. **Statement 1: Spores are always diploid.**
- Spores are produced by the process of meiosis in the sporophyte generation, which is diploid (2N). However, the spores themselves are haploid (N). Therefore, this statement is **incorrect**.

2. **Statement 2: Spores and gametes are diploid.**
- As established, spores are haploid (N) and gametes are also haploid (N). Thus, both spores and gametes cannot be diploid. This statement is also **incorrect**.

3. **Statement 3: Gametes are always haploid.**
- Gametes are indeed haploid cells (N). They are produced through meiosis and combine during fertilization to form a diploid zygote (2N). This statement is **correct**.

4. **Statement 4: Spores are gametes.**
- Spores and gametes serve different functions in reproduction. Spores are involved in asexual reproduction, while gametes are involved in sexual reproduction. Therefore, this statement is **incorrect**.

Based on the analysis, the only true statement is:
**Gametes are always haploid.**