To Identify Different Parts of an Embryo of a Dicot Seed (Class 10 Biology Practical)
To observe and identify the different parts of a dicot seed embryo, including cotyledons, radicle, and plumule.
TL;DR: To observe and identify the different parts of a dicot seed embryo, including cotyledons, radicle, and plumule.
Written & reviewed by the Syllab.in Academic Team (CBSE/NCERT subject experts) · Updated
Aim: To observe and identify the different parts of a dicot seed embryo, including cotyledons, radicle, and plumule.
Materials Required
- Dicot seeds (bean, pea, or groundnut soaked overnight)
- Petri dish
- Water
- Dissecting needle
- Magnifying glass
- Blotting paper
Theory
A dicot seed embryo consists of two cotyledons (seed leaves), a radicle (embryonic root), a plumule (embryonic shoot), and a hypocotyl connecting them. The cotyledons store nutrients. Upon germination, the radicle grows downward forming the root, and the plumule grows upward forming the shoot.
Procedure
- Soak dicot seeds (bean or pea) in water overnight to soften the seed coat
- Place the softened seed on a petri dish lined with blotting paper
- Carefully peel off the seed coat using a dissecting needle
- Gently separate the two cotyledons
- Locate and identify the small embryonic structures between the cotyledons
- Identify the radicle (pointed downward), the plumule (bud at the top), and the hypocotyl (connecting region)
- Observe the smooth surface of cotyledons that contain stored food
- Prepare a labeled diagram showing all identified parts
Observation
After removing the seed coat, two large fleshy cotyledons are clearly visible. Between them at one end is the small radicle (looks like a small pointed structure), and at the other end is the plumule (looks like a tiny bud). The hypocotyl connects these structures to the cotyledons.
Result
All major parts of the dicot seed embryo are successfully identified: two cotyledons (white and fleshy), radicle (downward), plumule (upward), and hypocotyl. The stored nutrients in cotyledons would support germination.
Precautions
- Soak seeds adequately to make dissection easier
- Handle seeds gently to avoid damaging delicate structures
- Use a sharp dissecting needle to separate parts
- Do not press hard while handling the embryo
- Keep the seed moist during observation
Viva Questions
What are cotyledons?
Cotyledons are seed leaves that store nutrients and are the first leaves to emerge during germination.
What is the difference between radicle and plumule?
The radicle develops into the root and grows downward, while the plumule develops into the shoot and grows upward.
Why are dicot seeds called dicots?
Dicot seeds are called dicots because they have two cotyledons.
What is the function of the hypocotyl?
The hypocotyl is the region between the radicle and cotyledons that helps connect these structures during development.
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