Question

The structure derived from ectoderm are
i. Pituitary gland
ii. Cornea
iii. Kidneys
iv. Notochord

A. i and ii
B. ii and iii
C. iii and iv
D. ii and iv

Answer 1

Hint: There are 3 types of germ layers namely ectoderm, endoderm and mesoderm. The outer layer gives rise to the master gland and certain eye structures. The middle and the innermost layer gives rise to kidneys, notochord, dermis, muscles, liver, etc.

Complete answer: A group of cells which together perform a common function is called tissue. These tissues together form organs which in turn form organ systems. These tissues emerge from 3 germ layers during embryonic development. Ectoderm, endoderm and mesoderm are the germ layers. The pituitary gland is made up of two lobes: adenohypophysis derived from oral ectoderm and neurohypophysis derived from neural ectoderm. The cornea is also derived from surface ectoderm.
Kidneys are derived from intermediate mesoderm, whereas the notochord is derived from chordamesoderm. 

Hence, the correct answer is A.

Additional information: The pituitary gland is called the master gland because it plays an important role in the body. It controls the activity of other hormone-secreting glands. The cornea is the transparent portion of the eye. It refracts or bends the light and covers the iris, pupil and anterior chamber of the eye.

Note: The pituitary gland is derived from oral and neural ectoderm. The anterior lobe or adenohypophysis grows from the roof of the mouth in early gestation. This protruding body is called the Rathke's pouch. The cornea functions like the window. It focuses the entry of light into the eye. Its main function is to refract or bend light.