Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
For industrial malting, it is essential to evaluate the percentage of living, viable barley grains capable of germinating.
A rapid biochemical test is preferred over slow natural germination trials.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The viability (germinative capacity) of barley is standardly evaluated using Tetrazolium staining (the TTC test):
- The grains are cut longitudinally and soaked in a solution of 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC).
- In living, metabolically active embryonic tissues, active dehydrogenase enzymes reduce the colorless soluble TTC salt into a stable, water-insoluble, bright red compound called formazan.
- Consequently, viable embryos stain a deep red color, while dead embryos remain uncolored.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct method is Tetrazolium staining, which corresponds to option (C).