Name: Germination of Seeds
Uploaded: 2019-07-19
Duration: 2 min 33 s
Description: Germination is the process by which an organism grows from a seed or similar structure. In this video, learn about germination and the factors affecting it.

Question

How would you demonstrate that oxygen and water are necessary for seeds to germinate?

Accepted Answer

Aim: To find whether oxygen is necessary for seed germination.

Experiment: Take two conical flasks with moist cotton at the bottom of the flasks and some soaked seeds kept on wet cotton. Hang a test tube containing pyrogallic acid dissolved in sodium hydroxide with the help of a thread, in the flask marked (A) and seal it with a cork and make it airtight. Seal the other flask, marked (B) in the same way but with the test tube containing water. Place both the flasks at room temperature and observe them after three to four days.

For this experiment, a solution of pyrogallic acid in sodium hydroxide which absorbs oxygen from the air is used.

Result: The seeds in the flask (A) do not germinate while they germinate in flask (B). Seed germination cannot take place without oxygen.

Aim: To find whether water is necessary for germination.

Experiment: Take four petri dishes and label these as A, B, C and D. Place cotton or blotting paper in the bottom of each. In A, keep seeds soaked overnight, on the moistened cotton. In B, soaked seeds are placed but the cotton is not moistened. In C, unsoaked seeds are placed on dry cotton. In D, soaked seeds are placed and completely covered with water.

Result: Seeds germinate properly in petri dish A only as we can see radicle growing out which turns into roots. In petri dish B, seeds may begin to germinate but then shrivel and die. In C, no germination occurs. In D, some seeds may start germinating but ultimately rot. Adequate water must be present for germination to start and progress.

How would you demonstrate that oxygen and water are necessary for seeds to germinate?

Important Questions on Seed : Structure, Types and Germination

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