Pericycle is not at all concerned with

Options

A. Production of lateral roots
B. Promoting secondary growth
C. Providing mechanical strength
D. Synthesis of carbohydrates

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Pericycle**: The pericycle is a layer of cells in the roots of plants, located just inside the endodermis. It plays a significant role in the growth and development of roots.

2. **Functions of Pericycle**: The primary functions of the pericycle include:
- **Support**: It provides structural support to the plant.
- **Protection**: It protects the vascular tissues, such as xylem and phloem.
- **Initiation of Lateral Roots**: The pericycle is responsible for the formation of lateral roots.

3. **Analyzing the Options**: The question asks what pericycle is not concerned with. The options provided are:
- A) Reduction of lateral roots
- B) Promoting secondary growth
- C) Providing mechanical strength
- D) Synthesis of carbohydrates

4. **Evaluating Each Option**:
- **A) Reduction of lateral roots**: This is incorrect because the pericycle is involved in the initiation of lateral roots, not their reduction.
- **B) Promoting secondary growth**: This is also incorrect as the pericycle contributes to secondary growth by forming the vascular cambium.
- **C) Providing mechanical strength**: This is the correct answer. The pericycle does not have sclerenchyma cells, which are responsible for mechanical strength.
- **D) Synthesis of carbohydrates**: This is incorrect as carbohydrate synthesis primarily occurs in the leaves, not in the pericycle.

5. **Conclusion**: The pericycle is not concerned with providing mechanical strength because it lacks the necessary cells (sclerenchyma) to perform this function.

### Final Answer:
The pericycle is not at all concerned with **providing mechanical strength**.