Understanding the Structure of a Seed
A seed is a vital part of the plant life cycle, serving as a means for reproduction and dispersal. The correct answer to the question about the composition of a seed is option 'D', which states that a seed consists of a seed coat and an embryo.
Components of a Seed
- Seed Coat:
The seed coat is the outer protective layer of the seed. Its primary function is to protect the inner parts of the seed from physical damage, pests, and diseases. The seed coat also plays a role in preventing water loss, ensuring that the seed remains viable until conditions are suitable for germination.
- Embryo:
The embryo is the young plant that develops within the seed. It consists of three main parts: the cotyledons (seed leaves), the radicle (embryonic root), and the shoot apex (embryonic stem). The cotyledons provide nutrients to the embryo during its initial growth phase until it can photosynthesize on its own.
Additional Insights
- Seeds can vary greatly in size, shape, and structure, depending on the plant species. However, the fundamental components remain the same.
- The embryo will grow into a full plant under favorable conditions, while the seed coat will eventually degrade as the seed germinates.
In summary, a seed is made up of a seed coat that protects it and an embryo that will grow into a new plant. Understanding these components is crucial for studying plant biology and reproduction, particularly for NEET aspirants.