Assertion : The leaves in gymnosperms are well adapted to withstand extremes of temperature, humidity and wind
Reason : Unlike bryophytes and pteridophytes, in gymnosperms the male and female gametophytes do not have an independent free living existence.

Options

A. both true but reason is not correct explanation
B. assertion true but reason in wrong
C. both are wrong
D. both are wrong.

Answer

To solve the question, we need to analyze both the assertion and the reason provided.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Assertion**:
- The assertion states that "The leaves in gymnosperms are well adapted to withstand extremes of temperature, humidity, and wind."
- This is true. Gymnosperms, particularly conifers, have needle-like leaves that are adapted to survive in harsh environmental conditions.

2. **Understanding the Reason**:
- The reason states that "Unlike bryophytes and pteridophytes, in gymnosperms the male and female gametophytes do not have an independent free-living existence."
- This statement is also true. In gymnosperms, the male and female gametophytes develop within the reproductive structures of the sporophyte and do not exist independently as they do in bryophytes and pteridophytes.

3. **Analyzing the Relationship**:
- While both the assertion and the reason are true, the reason does not explain why the leaves of gymnosperms are adapted to withstand extreme conditions. The adaptation of leaves is primarily due to their structural features (like needle shape, thick cuticle, and sunken stomata) rather than the nature of gametophytes.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the correct answer is that both statements are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation for the assertion.

### Final Answer:
Both the assertion and the reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation for the assertion.

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