Concept: This question tests your knowledge of the basic morphology of a flower, specifically the parts of the pistil (carpel).

Why (A) is correct: The pistil (or carpel) is the female reproductive part of a flower, typically consisting of three main parts: the stigma, style, and ovary. The style is the slender, stalk-like structure that connects the stigma (which receives pollen) to the ovary (which contains the ovules).

Why other options are wrong:

(B) placenta: The placenta is the tissue within the ovary to which the ovules are attached, not a connecting structure between the ovary and stigma.

(C) ovule: The ovule is the structure inside the ovary that contains the female gamete and develops into a seed after fertilization.

(D) filament: The filament is part of the stamen (male reproductive organ), supporting the anther, and has no role in connecting the ovary to the stigma.

Common Mistake: Students sometimes confuse the parts of the pistil with those of the stamen, or the functions of the style, stigma, and ovary.

NEET Tip / Mnemonic: Remember the female parts as Stigma, Style, Ovary (SSO) – the style is in the middle, connecting the top (stigma) to the bottom (ovary).

Correct Answer: (A)