swelling of the soaked gram seeds occur due to due to

Options

A. Imbibition
B. Diffusion
C. Transpiration
D. Respiration

Answer

To answer the question regarding the swelling of soaked gram seeds, we can break down the solution into clear steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Process**: When gram seeds are soaked in water, they begin to swell. This swelling is a physical change that occurs due to the absorption of water.

**Hint**: Think about what happens to dry materials when they come into contact with water.

2. **Identifying the Mechanism**: The phenomenon responsible for the swelling of the seeds is known as **imbibation**. Imbibation is the process where a solid absorbs liquid, leading to an increase in volume.

**Hint**: Recall the term that describes the absorption of water by solids.

3. **Role of Micropyle**: Each gram seed has a small opening called the **micropyle**. This structure allows water and oxygen to enter the seed, facilitating the imbibation process.

**Hint**: Consider where water enters the seed and how it affects the seed's structure.

4. **Metabolic Activity**: As water is absorbed, it activates the metabolic processes within the seed, which is crucial for germination. The increased metabolic activity is essential for the seed to begin the growth process.

**Hint**: Think about why seeds need water to start growing.

5. **Differentiating from Other Processes**: It’s important to distinguish imbibation from other processes like diffusion, transpiration, and respiration. Imbibation specifically refers to the absorption of water by solids, while diffusion involves the movement of substances from areas of higher concentration to lower concentration.

**Hint**: Reflect on how imbibation is different from other biological processes.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the swelling of soaked gram seeds occurs due to the process of imbibation.

**Hint**: Summarize the key concept that explains the swelling of the seeds.

### Final Answer:
The swelling of the soaked gram seeds occurs due to **imbibation**, which is the absorption of water by the solid seeds.