Pollen vs Ovule — Difference (with Table & FAQs)
Pollen vs Ovule compared side by side — a 7-row comparison table, 4 key points and 3 exam FAQs. Class 10 Biology, free and no sign-up.
TL;DR: Pollen vs Ovule compared side by side — a 7-row comparison table, 4 key points and 3 exam FAQs. Class 10 Biology, free and no sign-up.
Written & reviewed by the Syllab.in Academic Team (CBSE/NCERT subject experts) · Updated
The main difference between Pollen and Ovule: Pollen and ovules are the male and female reproductive structures in flowers. Pollen grains contain the male gametes (sperm cells), while ovules contain th
Pollen vs Ovule — Comparison Table
| Basis | Pollen | Ovule |
|---|---|---|
| Reproductive Role | Male reproductive structure | Female reproductive structure |
| Location | Produced in anther | Found in ovary |
| Number | Produced in very large quantities | Limited number per flower |
| Gamete Type | Contains male gamete (sperm) | Contains female gamete (egg) |
| Develops Into | Does not develop; transfers genes | Develops into seed |
| Structure | Small grain with protective wall | Complex structure with integuments |
| Dispersal | Dispersed by wind, insects, etc. | Remains in ovary until fertilization |
Key Points
- Pollen is the male gametophyte; ovule is the female gametophyte
- One pollen grain can pollinate one ovule but plants produce millions of pollen
- Ovule wall becomes seed coat; ovule contents develop into embryo and endosperm
- Without pollen reaching the ovule, no seed development can occur
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between pollen and an ovule?
Pollen grains carry the male gametes of a flowering plant and are produced in the anther. The ovule contains the female gamete and sits inside the ovary. Fertilisation joins the two.
How does pollen reach the ovule?
Pollen is transferred to the stigma during pollination, by wind, water or an animal such as an insect. A pollen tube then grows down through the style to the ovule, carrying the male gamete to it.
What do the ovule and the ovary become after fertilisation?
The fertilised ovule develops into the seed, and the ovary that surrounds it develops into the fruit. This is why the number of seeds in a fruit reflects the number of ovules that were fertilised.