Which of the below statements on the plant hormones is INCORRECT?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is option 3 i.e. Ethylene promotes seed germination.
Ethylene is a gaseous plant hormone primarily known for promoting fruit ripening and causing abscission (shedding of leaves and flowers). While it can break dormancy in some specific cases, it is generally considered an inhibitor of growth in many contexts. The primary hormone responsible for promoting seed germination by breaking dormancy and stimulating the production of enzymes like α-amylase is Gibberellin. Therefore, attributing seed germination as a primary function to Ethylene is clinically incorrect in general plant physiology.
Other Options:
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Auxins promote growth: Correct; Auxins are produced at the tips of stems and roots, primarily causing cell elongation and apical dominance.
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Cytokinins delay aging: Correct; they promote cell division and delay leaf senescence (aging) by mobilizing nutrients.
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Gibberellins promote stem elongation: Correct; they stimulate bolting (sudden stem growth) and increase the length of the axis in plants like grapes.