The process of physical and chemical breakdown of food into absorbable form is: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

Explanation:
The periderm is the outer protective covering of stems and roots that have undergone secondary growth (thickening), replacing the primary epidermis. It is composed of three distinct layers: 1) Phellem (cork): The outermost layer, consisting of dead, compactly arranged cells with suberized (waterproof) walls that provide protection and prevent water loss. 2) Phellogen (cork cambium): The middle, meristematic layer that produces phellem outwards and phelloderm inwards. 3) Phelloderm (secondary cortex): The innermost layer, consisting of living, parenchymatous cells.

Explanation:
Fungi are heterotrophic organisms; they cannot perform photosynthesis because they lack chlorophyll and chloroplasts. They obtain nutrients through absorption after extracellular digestion (saprophytic or parasitic). The cell wall contains chitin, and most are multicellular with a filamentous body (mycelium), though yeasts are unicellular. Thus, autotrophy is not a fungal characteristic.

Explanation:
The epiglottis is a leaf-shaped elastic cartilage that covers the glottis (opening of the larynx) during swallowing, directing food into the esophagus and preventing it from entering the trachea. The thyroid cartilage forms the Adam's apple, the cricoid is ring-shaped below, and arytenoids are involved in vocal cord movement.