A simple leaf can be differentiated from the pinnae of a compound leaf on the basis of presence or absence of
A)Number of pinnae
B)Shape of lamina
C)Axillary bud
D)Lateral buds

Hint: The pattern in the arrangement of veins in the blade of a leaf is defined as venation. Undivided lamina is usually found and observed in the simple leaves. The incisions are known with different names and the names depend on their pinnate or palmate venation.

Complete answer:
The most significant difference between a simple and a compound leaf is that a simple leaf contains only a single blade whereas the blade of compound leaf has many numbers of leaflets. In simple leaf there is no division present in the lamina but in compound leaf there is division usually occurs in the lamina.

Now let us find solution from given options:
Number of pinnae : Simple leaf contains a single blade while that of compound leaf contains more than one blade that has multiple blades.

Shape of lamina : In simple leaf there is no division seen in the lamina but in compound leaf there is division seen in the lamina.

Axillary bud : A compound leaf is defined as the leaf where the lamina is completely broken down into different segments or leaflets which are separately articulated at base. Leaflets show differences from the entire leaves in the absence of axillary buds, basal stipules and origin in the same plane. So this option is correct.

Lateral buds : In simple leaves the petiole base contains lateral buds but in compound leafs the petiole base or leaflet do not have lateral buds.

Hence, the correct answer is option (C)

Note: Simple leaves are defined as those that have only one leaflet connected to the main stem. In simple leaf, the blade is not divided and does not have smaller leaflet units. Examples are mango. Guava, etc. And in compound leaves one leaf is divided into many leaves or smaller subunits of leaves. Examples include Neem, Rose, Cotton, etc.