Which plant hormone is related to hastening the maturity period and germination of seeds?
(a) Auxin
(b) Gibberellin
(c) ABA
(d) Ethylene

Options

A. Auxin
B. Gibberellin
C. ABA
D. Ethylene

Answer

To solve the question regarding which plant hormone is related to hastening the maturity period and germination of seeds, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Question**: The question asks for a plant hormone that accelerates both the maturity period and seed germination.

2. **Identify the Options**: The options provided are:
- (a) Auxin
- (b) Gibberellin
- (c) ABA (Abscisic Acid)
- (d) Ethylene

3. **Analyze Each Hormone**:
- **Auxin**: Primarily involved in cell elongation and growth, but not specifically in seed germination or maturity.
- **Gibberellin**: Known to promote seed germination and break seed dormancy. It stimulates the synthesis of enzymes like alpha-amylase and proteases, which help in the breakdown of stored food in seeds, facilitating germination. It also plays a role in promoting growth and maturity in plants.
- **ABA (Abscisic Acid)**: Often referred to as the stress hormone, it generally inhibits growth and promotes seed dormancy rather than germination.
- **Ethylene**: A gaseous hormone that is more associated with fruit ripening and abscission rather than seed germination.

4. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, Gibberellin (option b) is the hormone that is directly related to hastening the maturity period and germination of seeds.

5. **Final Answer**: The correct answer is (b) Gibberellin.