The electrical conductivity (EC) test in seed testing gives a clear indication of-
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This test is particularly popular for large-seeded legumes like peas and beans.
It is a "negative" indicator because higher values indicate poorer quality.
- Dehydrogenase activity
- Alpha-amylase activity
- Integrity of cell membrane
- Glutamic acid decarboxylase activity
The Correct Option is C
Solution and Explanation
The question asks about the physiological basis of the Electrical Conductivity (EC) test in seed technology.
This test is a rapid biochemical method used to assess seed vigor and potential field performance.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
• Principles of Seed Aging: As seeds age or deteriorate, their biochemical systems begin to fail.
• One of the first systems to degrade is the cellular membrane system, which is composed of phospholipid bilayers.
• Mechanism of the EC Test: When seeds are soaked in deionized water, the semi-permeable nature of the cell membranes controls the entry of water and the exit of cellular contents.
• Healthy seeds with high membrane integrity allow very little leaching of intracellular solutes.
• Deteriorated seeds have leaky membranes, allowing electrolytes (salts, amino acids, sugars) to leach into the surrounding water.
• Since these electrolytes are charged particles, they increase the electrical conductivity of the soak-water.
• Therefore, a high EC reading indicates poor membrane integrity and low seed vigor, whereas a low EC reading indicates high membrane integrity and high vigor.
• Other options like dehydrogenase activity are measured by the Tetrazolium (TZ) test, not the EC test.
Final Answer:
The electrical conductivity test specifically measures the amount of electrolyte leakage, which serves as a direct indicator of the integrity of the cell membranes in the seed tissue.
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