Which of the following describes an effect of cold stratification?

Cold stratification is a process that involves exposing seeds to cold temperatures for a specific duration, simulating winter conditions. This treatment is essential for species that have seeds requiring a period of cold to break dormancy before they can germinate effectively. During this process, biochemical changes occur in the seed, often involving the breakdown of inhibitors that prevent germination. As a result, cold stratification enhances the seeds' readiness to sprout, ensuring that they germinate when conditions become favorable in spring.

This natural mechanism helps synchronize germination with optimal environmental conditions, increasing the likelihood of survival for the seedlings. Other options do not accurately represent the primary impact of cold stratification. While water absorption may improve as a result of the seed being prepared for germination, it is not the direct purpose or a significant effect of the cold treatment itself. Similarly, seed size and soil fertility are unrelated to the stratification process. Thus, the correct understanding of cold stratification's role in breaking seed dormancy makes this option the most appropriate answer.