Step 1: Understand the role of placenta
The placenta is a vital organ that forms during pregnancy. It connects the developing embryo (or fetus) to the uterine wall of the mother.
Step 2: Evaluate the given statements
(A) It is a disc embedded in the uterine wall – ✔️ True. The placenta is disc-shaped and attached to the uterus.
(B) It connects the embryo to the side of the uterus – ✔️ True. The placenta links the fetus to the mother’s uterine wall via the umbilical cord.
(C) It has a very small surface area for glucose and oxygen to pass from mother to embryo – ❌ Incorrect. The placenta actually has a large surface area to efficiently exchange nutrients, gases (like oxygen), and wastes between mother and fetus.
(D) It secretes hormones for maintaining pregnancy – ✔️ True. The placenta produces hormones like progesterone and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) to support pregnancy.
Step 3: Conclusion
The incorrect statement is:
It has a very small surface area for glucose and oxygen to pass from mother to embryo.