Question

question 8 points 3
assertion: mutualism is a relationship between two species in which both organisms benefit.
reasoning: many plants and animals benefit by having a close association with each other.
which of the following is true for the above statements?

both (a) and (r) are true, but (r) is not the correct explanation of a.

both (a) and (r) are true, but (r) is the correct explanation of a.

a is false and (r) is true

a is true and (r) is false.

Explanation:

1. Analyze the Assertion (A): The definition of mutualism is indeed a symbiotic relationship where both species involved benefit. So, A is true.
2. Analyze the Reasoning (R): Many plants and animals do have close associations (like pollination, where plants get pollinated and animals get nectar) that are mutualistic, meaning both benefit. So, R is true.
3. Check the explanation relationship: The Reasoning describes the general idea of mutualistic associations (many plants and animals benefiting from close associations), which is the essence of mutualism as defined in the Assertion. So, R correctly explains A.

Answer:

Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is the correct explanation of A.