What is the First Step in the Germination of a Seed

Question

What is the first step in the germination of a seed?
A) pollination
B) fertilization
C) imbibition
D) hydrolysis of starch and other food reserves
E) emergence of the radicle

Accepted Answer

The first step in the germination of a seed is imbibition, which is the absorption of water by the seed. This helps to activate the enzymes that will break down the food reserves in the seed and begin the growth process. Pollination and fertilization occur prior to seed formation, while hydrolysis of starch and other food reserves and emergence of the radicle occur after imbibition has taken place.