A respirometer measures water level (rises with O2 consumption when CO2 is absorbed by KOH). Comparing germinating and dry peas at constant temperature.
Why do germinating peas show a steeper rise in water (greater O2 consumption) than dry peas?
- A
Germinating peas release more CO2 to the air than dry peas
- Bcheck_circle
Germinating seeds have high metabolic activity, performing aerobic respiration to fuel growth
- C
Dry peas absorb water faster, masking the O2 use
- D
Dry peas conduct fermentation only
Explanation
Germinating seeds are metabolically active and consume O2 rapidly. Dry seeds are dormant with minimal respiration, so the water level barely changes.