Which of the following statements is true about arthropods?

Analyze the question: It asks about the thorax of arthropods (specifically insects, the class most WASSCE questions focus on). The thorax has three segments: prothorax, mesothorax and metathorax. We need to know which appendages each segment carries.

Concept: In a typical insect:

• Prothorax (first segment): bears one pair of legs only (no wings).
• Mesothorax (second segment): bears one pair of legs and the first pair of wings (forewings).
• Metathorax (third segment): bears one pair of legs and the second pair of wings (hindwings).

So every thoracic segment carries legs (3 pairs in total), but only the mesothorax and metathorax carry wings.

Checking each option:

• A. Prothorax bears only legs. True. The prothorax carries the first pair of legs and no wings.
• B. Mesothorax bears only legs. False. It carries legs and forewings.
• C. Metathorax bears only wings. False. It carries legs and hindwings.
• D. Prothorax bears only wings. False. It carries legs, not wings.

Answer: The correct option is A.

Tip: Remember "Pro = legs only; Meso and Meta = legs plus wings." Whenever an option says a segment bears "only wings", eliminate it right away, because every thoracic segment has legs. Flies (Diptera) and beetles have modified wings, but the basic pattern is still tested in the exam.