Investigation of the Conditions for Seed Germination
Abstract
This experiment aims to determine the essential conditions required for seed germination. By manipulating variables such as water, air, and temperature, students can identify the necessary factors that influence the successful sprouting of seeds.
Introduction
Seed germination is the process by which a seed develops into a new plant. For germination to occur, certain conditions must be met, including the presence of water, oxygen (air), and a suitable temperature. This investigation demonstrates how each of these factors affects germination using a simple setup.
Procedure
- Take four petri dishes or jars and label them A, B, C, and D.
- Place cotton wool or tissue paper in each dish and add 5 seeds (such as mung beans) on top.
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Set the conditions as follows:
- Dish A: Moist cotton, kept at room temperature (control - all conditions present).
- Dish B: Dry cotton, kept at room temperature (no water).
- Dish C: Moist cotton, kept in a refrigerator (low temperature).
- Dish D: Moist cotton, sealed in an airtight container (no air).
- Observe the seeds daily for 3–5 days and note which ones germinate.
Observation and Calculation
After 5 days, you should observe the following:
- Dish A: Seeds germinate successfully (all conditions met).
- Dish B: No germination (water is missing).
- Dish C: Little or no germination (temperature too low).
- Dish D: No germination (lack of oxygen).
Conclusion: Water, air, and suitable temperature are essential for seed germination.
20 Short Questions with Answers
- What is seed germination?
It is the process by which a seed develops into a new plant. - Name three conditions required for germination.
Water, air (oxygen), and suitable temperature. - What was the purpose of Dish A?
It served as the control group with all ideal conditions present. - Why didn’t seeds germinate in Dish B?
Because there was no water. - What was missing in Dish D?
Oxygen (air) was missing. - Why do we use cotton in this experiment?
To hold moisture and provide support to the seeds. - Which dish was kept at a low temperature?
Dish C. - What is the importance of air in germination?
Oxygen is needed for respiration and energy during germination. - What does the seed coat do?
It protects the seed until germination begins. - What part of the plant emerges first from the seed?
The root (radicle). - What is the role of water in seed germination?
It activates enzymes and softens the seed coat. - How many days were the seeds observed?
For 3 to 5 days. - What type of seed was used?
Mung bean or any fast-germinating seed. - Can a seed germinate without water?
No, water is essential for germination. - Why was an airtight container used?
To remove oxygen and test the effect of air absence. - What is the control group in this experiment?
Dish A, where all conditions are favorable. - Why is temperature important for germination?
It affects enzyme activity and seed metabolism. - What might happen if too much water is used?
It may prevent air from reaching the seed, leading to rotting. - What does germination tell us about seed health?
Healthy seeds will germinate; unhealthy ones won’t. - What are two signs that a seed is germinating?
Emergence of the root and shoot.
5 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Which of the following is essential for seed germination?
Ⓐ Sunlight Ⓑ Soil Ⓒ Water Ⓓ Fertilizer
Answer: Ⓒ Water - What happened to seeds in an airtight container?
Ⓐ Germinated fast Ⓑ Grew tall Ⓒ Did not germinate Ⓓ Turned yellow
Answer: Ⓒ Did not germinate - Why was the refrigerator used in one setup?
Ⓐ To test darkness Ⓑ To test low temperature Ⓒ To add moisture Ⓓ To remove air
Answer: Ⓑ To test low temperature - Which dish served as the control group?
Ⓐ Dish B Ⓑ Dish A Ⓒ Dish C Ⓓ Dish D
Answer: Ⓑ Dish A - Which part of the seed comes out first during germination?
Ⓐ Leaf Ⓑ Stem Ⓒ Root Ⓓ Flower
Answer: Ⓒ Root
Tags
Grade 10 Biology