Which of the following structures in a flower develops into the seed?

Step 1: Analyze the question We need the flower structure that develops into the seed after fertilization. (Note the difference: the ovary becomes the fruit, while something inside the ovary becomes the seed.)

Step 2: Explain the concept After pollination and fertilization in a flowering plant:

• The ovary → develops into the fruit
• The ovule (inside the ovary) → develops into the seed
• The integuments (outer covering layers of the ovule) → become the testa (seed coat)
• The zygote → becomes the embryo (plumule and radicle)
• The fusion nucleus (triploid endosperm nucleus) → becomes the endosperm
• The micropyle → remains as a small pore in the seed through which water enters

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. Testa: This is the seed coat, which is already part of the seed. It does not develop into the seed.
• B. Integument: This only forms the seed coat (testa), a part of the seed, not the whole seed.
• C. Ovule: The whole ovule, with its embryo sac, fertilized egg, and integuments, develops into the seed. ✔
• D. Ovary: This develops into the fruit, not the seed.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is **C.

Tip: Remember "Ovule → Seed, Ovary → Fruit." Think of the ovary as the "house" (the fruit) and the ovules as the "occupants" (the seeds) inside it.