Pteridophytes and mosses are two groups of plants that belong to the division Bryophyta and Pteridophyta, respectively. They are both non-vascular plants, meaning they lack specialized tissues for conducting water and nutrients. However, there are several key differences between these two groups.

Independent and Dominant Sporophyte (Answer C):
One major difference between pteridophytes and mosses is the level of dominance of the sporophyte generation in their life cycles. In pteridophytes, the sporophyte generation is independent and dominant, whereas in mosses, the sporophyte generation is dependent on the gametophyte and is not dominant.

Explanation:
1. Pteridophytes have a dominant sporophyte: The sporophyte generation in pteridophytes, which produces spores through meiosis, is the dominant phase in their life cycle. It is nutritionally independent and larger in size compared to the gametophyte.
2. Mosses have a dependent sporophyte: In contrast, mosses have a dependent sporophyte that remains attached to the gametophyte and relies on it for nutrition. The sporophyte is smaller in size and is structurally simpler than the gametophyte.
3. Dominance of the sporophyte in pteridophytes: The dominant sporophyte in pteridophytes allows for greater independence and reproductive efficiency. It can produce more spores, which can disperse and develop into new gametophytes.
4. Dependence of the sporophyte in mosses: The dependent sporophyte in mosses is nutritionally reliant on the gametophyte, which limits its growth and reproductive potential. This dependence is one of the reasons why mosses are typically smaller and have a simpler structure compared to pteridophytes.

In summary, the key difference between pteridophytes and mosses is the level of dominance and independence of the sporophyte generation. Pteridophytes have an independent and dominant sporophyte, whereas mosses have a dependent sporophyte.

Because it is Independent and dominant sporophyte