Module: | Pre-fertilization: Micro/Megasporogenesis
Q28: Consider the following statements regarding seed dormancy and maturation dehydration:
1. As an angiosperm seed matures, its water content is drastically reduced, bringing the moisture down to 10-15 percent by mass.
2. During this dehydration phase, the general metabolic activity of the embryo rapidly accelerates to prepare for immediate germination.
3. Dormancy is a state of physiological inactivity where the embryo survives unfavorable environmental conditions.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
2. During this dehydration phase, the general metabolic activity of the embryo rapidly accelerates to prepare for immediate germination.
3. Dormancy is a state of physiological inactivity where the embryo survives unfavorable environmental conditions.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
✅ Correct Answer: B
The correct option is B. Statements 1 and 3 are correct, but Statement 2 is incorrect.
The final stage of seed development involves profound structural and physiological changes to ensure long-term survival.
The seed undergoes severe desiccation, losing water until it represents only 10 to 15 percent of its total mass.
Causally, this lack of water restricts enzymatic function.
Therefore, contrary to Statement 2, the general metabolic activity of the embryo slows down drastically, entering a state of suspended animation known as dormancy.
This evolutionary mechanism protects the embryo from extreme temperatures and drought.
Only when favorable environmental conditions return, specifically adequate moisture, oxygen, and suitable temperature, will the seed break dormancy, rehydrate (imbibition), resume high metabolic activity, and germinate.
The final stage of seed development involves profound structural and physiological changes to ensure long-term survival.
The seed undergoes severe desiccation, losing water until it represents only 10 to 15 percent of its total mass.
Causally, this lack of water restricts enzymatic function.
Therefore, contrary to Statement 2, the general metabolic activity of the embryo slows down drastically, entering a state of suspended animation known as dormancy.
This evolutionary mechanism protects the embryo from extreme temperatures and drought.
Only when favorable environmental conditions return, specifically adequate moisture, oxygen, and suitable temperature, will the seed break dormancy, rehydrate (imbibition), resume high metabolic activity, and germinate.