Final answer:
The inclusion of quiescent seeds in an experiment aids in studying the effects of germination on respiration, providing insights into plant survival strategies, and reproduction through seed dormancy and dispersal over time.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of including quiescent (dry) seeds in an experiment is to study the effect of germination on respiration. These seeds are in a state of dormancy, which is a period of inactivity with very low metabolic rates. Dormancy allows seeds to remain viable under unfavorable conditions for extended periods, sometimes lasting months or even decades. When conditions become favorable, such as the presence of moisture, light, or a change in temperature, these seeds may begin to germinate—resuming their metabolic activities and plant growth. By including quiescent seeds in experiments, scientists can observe the transition of seeds from a dormant state to active germination and measure the associated changes in respiration rates.
Understanding seed dormancy and germination is crucial in studying plant lifecycle, propagation, and survival strategies. Dormancy allows plants to disperse their progeny through time, ensuring that their seeds can wait for optimal conditions to germinate, thereby securing the species' continuation. In ecological studies, this mechanism is vital for understanding how plants adapt to their environments and the strategies they use for successful reproduction and dispersal.