ConceptConceptDocsDocuments

Edexcel IGCSE Biology 3.6 Food reserves in germinating seeds

Practise linking food reserves in seeds to carbohydrate tests, enzyme action and the shift from stored starch to sugars during early growth.

Syllabus
First assessment 2019
Course
Biology 4BI1

Exam points

  • compare ungerminated and germinating seeds using starch, glucose or maltose results
  • explain how water activates enzymes that convert stored starch into soluble sugars for growth

3.6 Food reserves in germinating seeds question 1

[Maximum number: 5]

Question (a)

(a)

A scientist uses this method to compare the carbohydrates present in ungerminated and germinating pea seeds.
- carry out an iodine test and a Benedict's test on ungerminated seeds
- soak another set of seeds in water and allow them to germinate in unsealed jars
- after three days, carry out an iodine test and a Benedict's test on the germinating seeds

The table shows the scientist's results.

Table for Question (a) — Edexcel IGCSE Biology
[ 5 ]

Question (i)

(i)

State which carbohydrates the scientist identified in the ungerminated seeds and the germinating seeds.
ungerminated seeds
germinating seeds

[ 2 ]

Question (ii)

(ii)

Explain the difference in the carbohydrate composition of the ungerminated seeds and the germinating seeds.

[ 3 ]
All question bank results loaded