Seed germination is the process by which a seed develops into a new plant. It begins when a seed absorbs water, swells, and breaks through its outer shell. This process requires the right conditions, including moisture, temperature, and oxygen. Once these conditions are met, the seed's stored nutrients are used to fuel growth. As the seed germinates, it produces a root, which anchors the plant and absorbs water and nutrients from the soil. The shoot then emerges, growing upward to reach sunlight. This growth marks the beginning of a plant's life cycle, leading to the eventual production of new seeds.