Mechanical injuring of seed coat to break dormancy is called

Options

A. Scarification
B. Stratification
C. Impaction
D. Compaction

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Seed Dormancy**: Seed dormancy is a state in which seeds are unable to germinate even under favorable conditions. This is often due to a hard seed coat that prevents water and gases from entering the seed.

2. **Methods to Break Seed Dormancy**: There are various methods to artificially break seed dormancy. Two primary methods mentioned are scarification and stratification.

3. **Defining Scarification**: Scarification is a mechanical process that involves injuring or weakening the seed coat. This can be done through various means such as filing, chipping, or using hot water and chemicals.

4. **Defining Stratification**: Stratification involves exposing seeds to moisture and oxygen at varying temperatures to simulate natural conditions that seeds might experience in the wild.

5. **Identifying the Correct Term**: The question specifically asks about the mechanical injuring of the seed coat to break dormancy. Based on the definitions provided, the correct term for this process is "scarification."

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the answer to the question is that the mechanical injuring of the seed coat to break dormancy is called **scarification**.

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