M \ IT.RIAL TRANSFORMATIONS IN' THE PLANT 197 



The chemical processes of germination are different in different kinds oi 

 Seeds may be grouped into three classes according to the substances thai predominate 

 in them: starchy seeds, proteinaceous seeds, and fatty seeds. In star» by seeds (su< has 

 the cereal grains) carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen are lost during germinal ion. Germinat- 

 ing proteinaceous seeds (such as those of the legumes) also give of carbon, hydrogen, 

 and oxygen, but they are specially characterized by the production of asparagin, amino 

 acids, and some sulphates. Fatty seeds (such as those of sunflower) do not lose oxygen 

 during germination; the oxygen content actually increases. The original supply of tal - 

 is depleted and carbohydrates appear, these being apparently formed by the oxidation 

 of the fats. Free fatty acids increase- in amount. 



