Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Cytokinins are a class of plant growth substances (phytohormones) that promote cell division (cytokinesis) in plant roots and shoots.
They are involved in various physiological processes, including cell growth, differentiation, apical dominance, and responses to environmental signals.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate each of the given statements:
- A. Cytokinin stimulates cell division: This is correct.
The primary physiological function of cytokinins is to promote cytokinesis (cell division) in the presence of auxins.
They stimulate mitosis in meristematic tissues.
- B. One of the potent cytokinin is 6-Benzyladenine: This is correct.
6-Benzyladenine (6-BA, or benzylaminopurine) is a highly potent synthetic first-generation cytokinin.
It is widely used in plant tissue culture to induce shoot proliferation and growth.
- C. Cytokinin hastens senescence: This is incorrect.
Instead of hastening senescence, cytokinins are well-known for delaying leaf senescence (a phenomenon known as the Richmond-Lang effect).
They help maintain chlorophyll levels, protein synthesis, and nutrient mobilization in leaves, extending their functional lifespan.
- D. Cytokinin breaks dormancy of seeds and buds: This is correct.
Cytokinins can overcome bud and seed dormancy in several plant species, promoting germination and lateral bud outgrowth by counteracting the effects of abscisic acid (ABA).
Therefore, statements A, B, and D are correct, while statement C is incorrect.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct statements regarding cytokinins are A, B, and D only.