Question

Explain the following terms.

Imbibition.

Answer 1

Imbibition:

1. The process of absorption of water by the particles of a solid substance without forming a solution is called imbibition.
2. It is a type of diffusion where water is absorbed by solid particles called colloids, without forming a solution resulting in an increase in the volume.
3. The substance that imbibes water is called an imbibant or adsorbent eg. proteins and cellulose.
4. The liquid that has been imbibed is called imbibate.

Importance of Imbibition:

1. It causes swelling of seeds resulting in the breaking of a membrane called testa.
2. It is the initial step in seed germination.
3. Imbibition is prominent in the initial stages of water absorption by the roots.
4. Water enters into ovules which ripen into seeds by imbibition.