How is cross-pollination defined?

Cross-pollination is defined as the movement of pollen between two flowers, typically of different plants of the same species. This process involves the transfer of pollen grains from the male anthers of one flower to the female stigma of another flower, leading to the fertilization of ovules and ultimately the production of seeds.

Cross-pollination is crucial for genetic diversity in plant populations, as it allows for the mixing of genetic material. This diversity can enhance the resilience and adaptability of plant species, which is particularly important in agriculture and horticulture. This method contrasts with self-fertilization, where a flower's own pollen fertilizes its ovules, resulting in less genetic variability.

Other options discuss processes not associated with cross-pollination. For example, reproduction without pollen doesn't fit the definition since pollen is essential for fertilization in flowering plants. Self-fertilization pertains to a scenario where a flower fertilizes itself rather than involving two different flowers. Cloning plants does not involve pollination at all—instead, it refers to asexual reproduction, where a new plant is grown from cuttings or other vegetative parts of a parent plant.