Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Each plant species has a characteristic somatic chromosome number (\(2n\)) in its cells, which is a fundamental cytogenetic property.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us match each crop with its diploid chromosome number:
- A. Barley (*Hordeum vulgare*): It is a diploid cereal with a basic chromosome number of $x=7$. Thus, its diploid number is $2n = 14$ (V).
- B. Chickpea (*Cicer arietinum*): It has a diploid chromosome number of $2n = 16$ (IV).
- C. Soybean (*Glycine max*): It is a paleopolyploid species with a diploid chromosome number of $2n = 40$ (II).
- D. Maize (*Zea mays*): It has a diploid chromosome number of $2n = 20$ (III).
- E. Rice (*Oryza sativa*): It has a diploid chromosome number of $2n = 24$ (I).
Combining these matches: A $\rightarrow$ V, B $\rightarrow$ IV, C $\rightarrow$ II, D $\rightarrow$ III, E $\rightarrow$ I.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct matching sequence is A-V, B-IV, C-II, D-III, E-I.