Seed dormancy is a natural state in which seeds remain inactive and do not germinate, even under favorable conditions. This process helps ensure that seeds only sprout when the environment is suitable for growth, such as the right temperature, moisture, and light. Dormancy can be a survival strategy, allowing seeds to wait out unfavorable conditions like drought or extreme temperatures. There are different types of seed dormancy, including physical dormancy, where seeds have hard coatings that prevent water absorption, and physiological dormancy, where internal factors inhibit germination. Understanding seed dormancy is crucial for agriculture and ecology, as it affects plant reproduction and ecosystem dynamics.