Synthetic seeds are

Options

A. chemical seed
B. encapsulated somatic embryos
C. clone
D. none above

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Definition of Synthetic Seeds**:
Synthetic seeds are artificially created seeds that are derived from somatic embryos. They are designed to mimic the natural seed structure and function.

2. **Source of Synthetic Seeds**:
The process begins with the extraction of meristematic cells from a plant. These cells are undifferentiated and have the potential to develop into various plant tissues.

3. **Establishment of Somatic Embryos**:
The extracted meristematic cells are cultured to establish somatic embryos. Somatic embryos are a mass of undifferentiated cells known as callus, which can differentiate into various plant structures.

4. **Maturation of Embryos**:
Once the somatic embryos are formed, they are allowed to mature. This maturation process is crucial for the development of the embryos into a form that can be used as synthetic seeds.

5. **Singulation of Embryos**:
After maturation, the embryos are singulated, meaning they are separated into individual embryos. This step ensures that each synthetic seed contains one embryo.

6. **Encapsulation**:
The individual embryos are then subjected to encapsulation. This involves surrounding the embryo with a protective layer, often a jelly-like substance, which helps to keep the embryo viable and protected.

7. **Final Structure of Synthetic Seed**:
The final product, known as a synthetic seed, consists of an encapsulated somatic embryo that contains the essential parts of a plant: a shoot tip and a root tip. This structure allows the synthetic seed to develop into a complete plant.

8. **Advantages of Synthetic Seeds**:
Synthetic seeds allow for mass production of plants from a single cell, making them a valuable tool in biotechnology and agriculture.