Question

Dry seeds can endure higher temperature than the germinating seeds because

• A. Dry seeds have more reserve food.
• B. Hydration makes the enzymes more sensitive to temperature.
• C. Dry seeds are hard.
• D. The seedlings are tender.

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Hydration makes the enzymes more sensitive to temperature.

Dry seeds in general are in a state of quiescence. The metabolic activity and consequently catalytic activity of enzymes is negligible. Hydration due to imbibition of water is the first stage of germination and initiates active metabolism in seed. Only after hydration, enzymes are fully active. Hence, hydration makes them sensitive to changes in temperature, pH, chemicals etc., like any other living entity.

So, the correct answer is 'Hydration makes the enzymes more sensitive to temperature.'