Explain how a seed obtains energy during germination. - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question h - 2010
Question h
Explain how a seed obtains energy during germination.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain how a seed obtains energy during germination. - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question h - 2010
Step 1
Food store (cotyledons or endosperm)
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Answer
During germination, a seed primarily obtains energy from its food store, which can be the cotyledons or endosperm. These structures contain stored food reserves, such as starch, which are critical for the early growth of the seedling.
Step 2
Chemical breakdown
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Answer
The stored starch in the seed undergoes a chemical breakdown process. Enzymes such as amylase facilitate this conversion, breaking down starch into simpler sugars that can be utilized by the developing plant.
Step 3
Aerobic respiration
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Once the starch is broken down into sugars, these sugars are then used in cellular processes. The seedling, particularly after the initial germination stage, begins to perform aerobic respiration, which requires oxygen. This process allows the seedling to release energy stored in these sugars, promoting growth and development.
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