An enzyme that can stimulate germination of barley seeds is

Options

A. protease
B. invertase
C. `alpha`-amylase
D. lipase

Answer

To determine which enzyme can stimulate the germination of barley seeds, we can analyze the options provided:

1. **Protease**: This enzyme breaks down proteins into smaller peptides or amino acids. While important for protein digestion, it does not directly aid in the germination of seeds.

2. **Invertase**: This enzyme converts sucrose into glucose and fructose. It is involved in sugar metabolism but does not play a direct role in the germination process of barley seeds.

3. **Alpha Amylase**: This enzyme is crucial for breaking down starch into simpler sugars (like maltose and glucose). Since barley seeds have a significant amount of starch in their outer seed coat, alpha amylase is essential for converting this starch into sugars that can be utilized by the seed during germination.

4. **Lipase**: This enzyme acts on fats, breaking them down into fatty acids and glycerol. While it is important for fat metabolism, it does not contribute to the germination of seeds.

Given that germination requires the conversion of stored starch into usable sugars, the enzyme that stimulates the germination of barley seeds is **alpha amylase**.

**Final Answer**: The enzyme that can stimulate germination of barley seeds is **alpha amylase**.

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