Describe the conditions needed for a seed to germinate and explain why each condition is necessary.

Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) — 16.2 Sexual reproduction · Describe · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

1. Water – it softens the seed coat, activates enzymes and allows the embryo to swell.
2. Oxygen – required for cellular respiration so the embryo can produce ATP for growth.
3. Suitable temperature – provides the energy needed for metabolic reactions and enzyme activity.
4. Each condition supports embryo growth: without water the seed cannot swell; without oxygen respiration stops; without temperature enzymes are inactive, so germination cannot proceed.

Examiner tips

  • Use the exact terms ‘water’, ‘oxygen’, ‘temperature’ and link each to embryo growth. Show the cause–effect relationship (e.g. water activates enzymes).
  • Keep each point short – 1–2 sentences – to fit the 4‑mark allocation.

Common mistakes

  • Writing ‘light’ or ‘sunlight’ instead of temperature. Failing to explain why the condition is necessary (e.g. just stating water is needed without mentioning enzyme activation).

Mark scheme (4 marks)

  1. Water is required for germination
  2. Oxygen is required for germination
  3. A suitable temperature is required for germination
  4. Linking a condition to its role in supporting embryo growth / why absence prevents germination

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