# Explain why germinating seeds produce large amounts of carbon dioxide in the first few days after germination, even before the seedling leaves emerge above the soil.

> Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Biology (4BI1) — 2.7 Respiration · Explain · 4 marks

> Germinating seeds respire rapidly as they begin to grow. During the first few days, the seedling is entirely underground and receives no light.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Germinating seeds carry out aerobic respiration
2. Aerobic respiration uses glucose (and oxygen) to release energy
3. Carbon dioxide is a product of aerobic respiration
4. Large amounts of energy are needed for rapid cell division / growth of the seedling, so the rate of respiration is high

## Key terms

- [carbon dioxide](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/carbon-dioxide)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Biology (4BI1)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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