Question

Define seed germination and write down the process of seed germination (steps).

Answer 1

Seed can be defined as an embryonic plant enclosed in protective outer covering. Seed germination is a very important step in plant growth.

Complete answer:
Seed germination is defined as - the fundamental process in which different plants grow from single seeds. It impacts both, the quality and the crop yield.
The process of seed germination occurs in the following steps:
During the beginning stage, the seeds readily consume water; thus resulting in swelling and softening of the seed coat, at a moderate temperature. This stage is - Imbibition. It activates the enzymes and starts the growth process. Internal physiology of the seed is activated and thus the seed begins to respire, produce proteins and metabolize the stored food. This is the seed germination’s lag phase.
By the seed coat rupturing, the radicle emerges out to form the primary root. So, the seed starts absorbing water from the (under)ground. After the radicle has emerged, the plumule shoot starts growing upwards. In the final stage, the seed’s cells become active metabolically, extend, elongate and divide further to give rise to the seedling. So, in short, first the seed grows a root, so as to access the underground water. Then, the shoot begins to appear. The seed pushes the shoot upwards, towards the surface, where it grows leaves to absorb energy from the sun. The radicle’s emergence is basically considered as the completion of the process of germination.

Note: Some important requirements for the germination of a seed into a seedling, and then into a plant are :-
->Oxygen
->Water
->Light / darkness
->Moderate temperature of around 25-30°C.