Which of the following are not secondary metabolites in plants?
- Rubber, gums
- Morphine, codeine
- Amino acids, glucose
- Vinblastin, curcumin
Answer
(3) Amino acids, glucose
Solution
As per NCERT, secondary metabolites include alkaloids (morphine, codeine), polymeric substances (rubber, gums, cellulose) and drugs (vinblastin, curcumin).
Amino acids and sugars such as glucose have identifiable functions in normal physiological processes ⇒ they are primary metabolites.
Answer: (3)