Forth maize seeds were sown on a raised bed and thirty-five seeds germinated. (a) (i) Calculate the percentage of the maize seeds that germinated [2 marks] ...

Answer Details

Given: 40 maize seeds sown, 35 germinated.

(a)(i) Percentage that germinated

\[ \text{Germination \%} = \frac{\text{number germinated}}{\text{number sown}} \times 100 = \frac{35}{40} \times 100 = 87.5\% \]

(a)(ii) Percentage that did not germinate

Seeds that failed = 40 - 35 = 5.

\[ \frac{5}{40} \times 100 = 12.5\% \]

(Or simply 100% - 87.5% = 12.5%.)

(b) Four conditions that could have enhanced germination

1. Adequate soil moisture (water).
2. Suitable warm temperature.
3. Sufficient supply of oxygen (good soil aeration).
4. Viable, healthy seeds sown at correct depth.

(c) Five reasons why some seeds did not germinate

1. The seeds were not viable (dead or too old).
2. Seeds were attacked by soil pests or diseases.
3. Seeds were sown too deep or too shallow.
4. Inadequate moisture (drought) or excess water (waterlogging).
5. Seeds were still in dormancy, or unfavourable temperature.

(d) Two industrial uses of maize seeds

1. Used in making cornflour, corn starch, corn oil and breakfast cereals.
2. Used in producing livestock feed, and in brewing/making of ethanol and glucose syrup.