14. Which one of the following statements regarding double fertilization in plants is correct?
    (1) The same sperm cell fuses with both egg cell and central cell.
    (2) Two sperm cells fuse with the egg cell.
    (3) One sperm cell fuses with the egg cell and second with the central cell.
    (4) Two sperm cells fuse with the central cell.

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Introduction

Double fertilization is a distinctive feature of angiosperm reproduction involving two fertilization events within the embryo sac. This biological process ensures the formation of both the zygote and nourishing endosperm tissue, critical for seed development.

Detailed Mechanism of Double Fertilization

• Within the pollen tube, two sperm cells are formed and transported to the female gametophyte (embryo sac).

• The pollen tube enters the embryo sac by penetrating one of the synergid cells, which degenerates to allow sperm release.

• One sperm cell fertilizes the haploid egg cell, creating a diploid zygote that develops into the embryo.

• The second sperm cell fuses with the central cell, which contains two polar nuclei, forming a triploid primary endosperm nucleus that develops into nutritive tissue supporting the embryo.

Incorrect Options Explanation

• Option (1): The same sperm cannot fertilize both egg and central cell simultaneously as each sperm fuses separately.

• Option (2): Two sperm cells do not fuse with the egg cell; one sperm fertilizes the egg, and the other fertilizes the central cell.

• Option (4): Both sperm cells do not fertilize the central cell; only one sperm fuses with the central cell.

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Summary Table: Double Fertilization Events in Angiosperms

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Conclusion

Double fertilization consists of the fusion of one sperm with the egg cell and the other with the central cell, leading respectively to embryo and endosperm formation. Option (3) accurately describes this process.