In an experiment, the dry mass of germinating seeds was measured daily. On day 1 the dry mass was 5.0 g, and by day 4 it had fallen to 2.0 g. Which of the following best explains this observation?

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Accepted Answer

Stored food reserves were consumed in respiration during germination before photosynthesis began. During early germination, seeds rely entirely on stored food (starch, lipids, proteins) for energy through respiration, releasing CO₂ and water vapour and thus reducing dry mass. Photosynthesis cannot begin until the seedling develops functional leaves and is exposed to light. Water absorption affec

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A) The seeds absorbed excess water, diluting the dry mass

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B) Stored food reserves were consumed in respiration during germination before photosynthesis began

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C) Mineral salts were leached out of the seeds into the soil

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D) Cell division caused the existing mass to be distributed among more cells

In an experiment, the dry mass of germinating seeds was measured daily. On day 1 the dry mass was 5.0 g, and by day 4 it had fallen to 2.0 g. Which of the following best explains this observation?

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