Question of the Day – LOBIA SEEDS GERMINATION IN SPACE
QOTD April 21,2026
With reference to plant growth in space, consider the following statements:
- Microgravity affects root and shoot orientation in plants.
- Plants can germinate in space without the presence of gravity.
- Photosynthesis cannot occur in space due to absence of sunlight.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct
Microgravity alters gravitropism, affecting the direction of root and shoot growth.
Statement 2 is correct
Seeds can germinate in space under controlled conditions.
Statement 3 is incorrect
Photosynthesis can occur in space if light and other conditions are provided artificially.
Why in news–
The successful germination of Lobia seeds in space has gained attention as part of experiments conducted by Indian Space Research Organisation to study plant growth in microgravity conditions. This experiment is significant for future long-duration space missions, as it helps in understanding sustainable food production and life-support systems in space environments.
News-Cowpea seeds sprouts in space, leaves expected soon, says ISRO – The Hindu
There are more questions from this topic that you should practice to make your concepts stronger.
Practice Questions (PQ)
PQ1.Consider the following statements:
- Gravitropism is the growth response of plants to gravity.
- In microgravity, plants rely more on light for directional growth.
- Space conditions completely inhibit plant cell division.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer : (a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct
Gravitropism directs roots downward and shoots upward on Earth.
Statement 2 is correct
In absence of gravity, phototropism becomes more dominant.
Statement 3 is incorrect
Cell division can still occur in space under suitable conditions.
PQ2. Consider the following statements:
- Microgravity conditions can affect water distribution in plant tissues.
- Space farming is being explored for long-duration missions like Mars exploration.
- Seeds cannot survive exposure to space conditions.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct
Fluid behavior changes in microgravity, impacting water uptake in plants.
Statement 2 is correct
Space agriculture is important for future missions and self-sustaining habitats.
Statement 3 is incorrect
Seeds can survive and even germinate when protected and provided suitable conditions.
PQ3.Consider the following statements:
- Photosynthesis requires light, carbon dioxide, and water.
- Artificial light sources can support plant growth in space.
- Gravity is an essential requirement for photosynthesis.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct
Photosynthesis depends on light, CO2, and water.
Statement 2 is correct
Artificial lighting systems are used in space experiments.
Statement 3 is incorrect
Gravity is not required for the biochemical process of photosynthesis.
Previous Year Question (UPSC Prelims)
With reference to photosynthesis, consider the following statements:
- Chlorophyll is essential for photosynthesis.
- Oxygen is released as a by-product of photosynthesis.
- Photosynthesis occurs only during nighttime.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct
Chlorophyll absorbs light energy necessary for photosynthesis.
Statement 2 is correct
Oxygen is released during the light reaction of photosynthesis.
Statement 3 is incorrect
Photosynthesis primarily occurs in the presence of light, not at night.