Algonquin College Health Program Assessment (AC-HPAT) Practice Exam

Which part of the flower receives the pollen?

1. Petal

2. Ovary

3. Stigma

4. Anther

The correct answer is: Stigma

The stigma is the part of the flower that receives the pollen. It is typically found at the top of the pistil, which is the female reproductive structure of the flower. When pollen from another flower lands on the stigma, it can germinate and grow down the style towards the ovary, where fertilization takes place. This process is essential for the reproduction of flowering plants, as it enables the transfer of male genetic material from the pollen to the ovule in the ovary. The stigma is designed to capture pollen grains effectively due to its sticky surface, which aids in ensuring successful pollination. Understanding the role of the stigma highlights the importance of this structure in the overall process of plant reproduction, demonstrating how crucial it is for the continuation of species. This knowledge is fundamental in botany and is particularly relevant in fields such as agriculture and horticulture, where pollination plays a vital role in crop production.