Image: Sequential Steps of Bean Seedling Germination

Description: Germination has the following steps: Step 1: The dry seed remains dormant before germination begins. The seed coat protects the embryo inside. Step 2: The seed absorbs water through imbibition, causing the seed coat to soften and swell as the embryo becomes active. Step 3: Continued water absorption prepares the embryo for growth and development. Seed coat ruptures. Step 4: The radicle emerges first from the seed coat and begins growing downward to absorb water and nutrients. Step 5: The plumule begins to emerge and grow upward as the plant starts developing. Step 6: The root system expands and the cotyledons begin to grow. Step 7: The shoot continues upward growth as the hypocotyl elongates and lifts the cotyledons above the soil surface. The young seedling begins developing its first structures for continued growth. Step 8: The first true leaves emerge from the epicotyl. The cotyledons provide stored nutrients until the plant can sustain itself independently.

Step 9: The first true leaves expand and become the primary site of photosynthesis. The epicotyl continues elongating to support upward growth while the root system develops further for increased water and nutrient absorption. The cotyledons fall off and the young plant is now self-sustaining.
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