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Difference Between Apoenzyme and Haloenzyme: Key Differences, Definitions & Examples

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Understand the Difference Between Apoenzyme and Haloenzyme

Plants grow from seeds, and every seed contains essential parts that develop into a new plant. Two of the most important parts of a germinating seed are the radicle and the plumule. These structures play vital roles in early plant growth and development.


  • Radicle is the first part of a seedling to emerge during germination, developing into the root system of the plant.

  • Plumule is the part of the embryo that grows into the shoot system, including stems and leaves.


Understanding the difference between radicle and plumule is important to learn how plants grow and establish themselves after germination.


Differences Between Radicle and Plumule

S.No

Characteristics

Radicle

Plumule

1.

Location

Develops from the lower end

Develops from the upper end

2.

Function

Forms the embryonic root

Forms the embryonic shoot

3.

Germination

Emerges first during germination

Emerges after the radicle

4.

Growth

Develops into the primary root

Elongates to form stem and leaves

5.

Position in seeds

Lowermost part of the embryo

Uppermost part of the embryo

6.

Direction of Growth

Downward into the soil

Upward towards the air



Essential Study Materials for NEET UG 2025

FAQs on Difference Between Apoenzyme and Haloenzyme: Key Differences, Definitions & Examples

1. What is the radicle in a seed?

The radicle is the first structure to emerge from a seed during germination, developing into the plant’s root system.

2. What is the plumule in a seed?

The plumule is the part of the seed embryo that develops into the plant’s shoot system, including the stem and leaves.

3. Why does the radicle grow first during germination?

The radicle grows first to anchor the plant in the soil and absorb water, which is essential for further growth.

4. How does the plumule contribute to plant growth?

The plumule forms the plant’s aerial parts and enables photosynthesis, providing energy for the plant.

5. What happens if the radicle is damaged?

If the radicle is damaged, the plant may struggle to absorb water and nutrients, leading to poor growth or death.

6. What happens if the plumule is damaged?

If the plumule is damaged, shoot growth may be delayed, but some plants can recover and grow new shoots.

7. How does gravity affect the radicle and plumule?

The radicle grows downward (positively geotropic), while the plumule grows upward (negatively geotropic).

8. Does every seed have both a radicle and a plumule?

Yes, every viable seed contains both a radicle and a plumule, which develop into the root and shoot systems.

9. Can a plant survive without a radicle or plumule?

A plant without a radicle cannot absorb water, making survival difficult. A plant without a plumule may survive temporarily but struggle with growth.

10. What are some examples of plants with distinct radicles and plumules?

Examples include beans, wheat, peas (radicle forms roots) and maize, mango, sunflower (plumule forms shoots).