What are some similarities shared by green algae and plants?

a. They make their own food, store energy as starch, and have a two-
stage life cycle.

b. They make their own food, are plants, and live in a dry environment.
c. They rely on insects for fertilization, store water, and make seeds.
d. They need sunlight, have flowers, and make their own food.

The correct answer is option a: They make their own food, store energy as starch, and have a two-stage life cycle.

To arrive at this answer, we can compare the characteristics of green algae and plants:

1. Making their own food: Both green algae and plants are capable of performing photosynthesis, which means they can produce their own food using sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water.

2. Storing energy as starch: Both green algae and plants store excess energy in the form of starch. Starch is a complex carbohydrate that can be easily converted back into energy when needed.

3. Having a two-stage life cycle: Green algae and plants have a similar life cycle that typically consists of two stages: a haploid stage (gametophyte) and a diploid stage (sporophyte). In both stages, reproduction occurs, allowing for the continuation of the species.

Option b is incorrect because it incorrectly states that green algae and plants live in a dry environment. While some plants do thrive in arid conditions, many green algae and plants can be found in various aquatic environments as well.

Option c is incorrect because it describes the characteristics of certain other plants, such as angiosperms, which rely on insects for fertilization, store water, and make seeds. This does not apply to green algae specifically.

Option d is incorrect because it describes the characteristics of angiosperms (flowering plants), which have flowers and make their own food. Green algae, on the other hand, do not have flowers.