Question

Given below are two statements
Statement I: Seed should be treated with fungicide solution.
Statement II: Without treating with fungicide solution, seeds do not germinate.
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below

• A. Both Statement I and Statement II are correct
• B. Both Statement I and Statement II are incorrect
• C. Statement I is correct but Statement II is incorrect
• D. Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct

Hint:

Be cautious of extreme words like "always", "never", "without", or "cannot" in scientific statements.
While fungicides improve survival rates, they do not trigger the biological process of germination.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Seed treatment is an essential pre-sowing agronomic practice.
It aims to shield seeds from soil-borne pathogens and enhance overall field establishment.
Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate Statement I:
Treating seeds with a systemic or contact fungicide is a recommended agricultural practice.
It prevents seed rot, seedling blight, and pre-emergence damping-off caused by fungal species like Fusarium, Pythium, and Rhizoctonia.
Thus, Statement I is correct.
Let us evaluate Statement II:
This statement makes an absolute claim that seeds cannot germinate without a fungicide treatment.
This is false.
Germination is a physiological process requiring water, oxygen, and favorable temperatures.
Untreated seeds germinate readily in sterile or healthy environments.
The treatment merely serves as a protective insurance policy against disease, not a physiological requirement for germination.
Thus, Statement II is incorrect.

Step 2: Final Answer:
Statement I is correct, but Statement II is incorrect.