To determine the floral formula for the Malvaceae family, we will analyze the characteristics of the flowers in this family step by step.
### Step-by-Step Solution:
1. **Identify the Symmetry of Flowers**:
- Malvaceae flowers are actinomorphic, meaning they are symmetrical and can be divided into equal halves in multiple planes.
- **Hint**: Remember that actinomorphic flowers can be divided symmetrically in any direction.
2. **Determine the Sexuality of the Flowers**:
- The flowers are bisexual, indicating that both male (stamens) and female (pistils) reproductive organs are present in the same flower.
- **Hint**: Bisexual flowers contain both stamens and carpels.
3. **Analyze the Calyx**:
- The calyx consists of 5 sepals that are fused together. Additionally, there may be an epicalyx (a whorl of bracts) that can have 3-7 structures resembling sepals.
- **Hint**: Count the sepals and remember that they are fused.
4. **Examine the Corolla**:
- The corolla has 5 petals, which are also fused together.
- **Hint**: Look for the number of petals and their fusion.
5. **Study the Androecium**:
- The androecium consists of numerous stamens (indefinite in number), which are also fused at the base.
- **Hint**: Note that the number of stamens is often represented as infinite.
6. **Understand the Gynoecium**:
- The gynoecium has 5 carpels that are fused together and are superior.
- **Hint**: Remember that the number of carpels is important and their fusion type matters.
7. **Compile the Floral Formula**:
- Based on the characteristics identified:
- Symmetry: Actinomorphic (→)
- Bisexual: (B)
- Calyx: 5 sepals, fused (C5)
- Corolla: 5 petals, fused (P5)
- Androecium: many stamens, fused (A∞)
- Gynoecium: 5 carpels, fused, superior (G5)
- The floral formula for Malvaceae can be written as:
- **Floral Formula**: **\[\text{Br} \, (3-7) \, \text{C}5 \, \text{P}5 \, \text{A}∞ \, \text{G}5\]**
### Final Floral Formula:
- **Floral Formula for Malvaceae**: \[\text{Br} \, (3-7) \, \text{C}5 \, \text{P}5 \, \text{A}∞ \, \text{G}5\]
