Biology of Seeds

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of the endosperm in a seed?

To facilitate seed germination
To provide protection to the embryo
To store nutrients and energy for the developing plant (correct)
To regulate seed dormancy

Which type of seed has two cotyledons?

Dicot seed (correct)
Gymnosperm seed
Monocot seed
Angiosperm seed

What is the first step in the seed germination process?

Cotyledon emerges
Seed coat breaks
Radicle emerges
Imbibition (correct)

What is the main function of the seed coat?

To protect the embryo from external damage (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a characteristic of seed dormancy?

Seeds can remain dormant until conditions are favorable for growth (A) Signup and view all the answers

What are the main functions of roots in a plant?

Absorption of water and nutrients from the soil, anchorage of the plant in the soil, storage of food and nutrients, and production of certain hormones that promote growth and development Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between a taproot and a fibrous root?

A taproot is a single, main root that grows straight down into the soil, whereas a fibrous root is a network of smaller roots that spread out in all directions Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of root hairs in a plant?

To increase the surface area of the root, allowing for more efficient absorption of water and nutrients Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the epidermis in a root?

To protect the root from pathogens and water loss Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of vascular tissue in a root?

To transport water and nutrients to the rest of the plant Signup and view all the answers

What are adventitious roots, and where are they often found?

Adventitious roots are roots that grow from stems or leaves, often found in plants like ivy and cattails Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of pneumatophores in certain plants?

To allow plants to breathe above the water line Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of tubers in certain plants?

To store food and nutrients Signup and view all the answers

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Study Notes

Seeds

Structure

Seed consists of three main parts:
1. Embryo: miniature plant with root, stem, and leaves
2. Endosperm: nutrient-rich tissue that provides food for the embryo
3. Seed coat: protective outer layer

Functions

Reproduction: seeds allow plants to reproduce and disperse
Dormancy: seeds can remain dormant until conditions are favorable for growth
Storage: seeds store nutrients and energy for the developing plant

Types of Seeds

Monocot seeds: have one cotyledon (seed leaf), e.g. grasses, corn
Dicot seeds: have two cotyledons, e.g. beans, peas

Seed Germination

Conditions: seeds require water, oxygen, and suitable temperature to germinate
Steps:
1. Imbibition: seed absorbs water
2. Seed coat breaks: seed coat cracks open
3. Radicle emerges: primary root grows out
4. Cotyledon emerges: seed leaf grows out