• In classical growth analysis, Leaf Area Ratio (LAR) is mathematically defined as the ratio of total leaf area (A) to total plant dry weight (W): LAR = A / W.
• LAR measures the leafiness of the plant or the photosynthetic area developed per unit of dry matter produced, expressed in cm²/g or m²/kg.
• Leaf Area Index (LAI) is the ratio of leaf area to ground surface area, while Leaf Area Duration (LAD) measures photosynthetic persistence over time.
• Net Assimilation Rate (NAR) represents the efficiency of dry matter production per unit leaf area. Thus, the index reflecting 'leafiness' is specifically LAR.

• Net Assimilation Rate (NAR), also called Unit Leaf Rate (ULR), measures the net gain of dry matter per unit leaf area per unit time: NAR = (1/A) * (dW/dt).
• Because dry matter accumulation equals gross photosynthesis minus total respiration, NAR directly reflects the rate of net photosynthesis.
• Relative Growth Rate (RGR) measures increase in plant weight per unit of existing biomass, whereas Crop Growth Rate (CGR) measures dry matter accumulation per unit land area.
• Leaf Area Duration (LAD) denotes the persistence of green canopy area over time. Thus, net photosynthetic efficiency is reflected by NAR.

In epigeal germination (e.g. mustard, bean, cotton), the hypocotyl elongates rapidly and curves into an arch, pulling the cotyledons above the soil surface.

• Epicotyl: Elongation of the epicotyl characterizes hypogeal germination (e.g. pea, gram), where cotyledons remain underground.
• Hypocotyl: Rapid elongation and curvature of the hypocotyl lifts the cotyledons out of the soil in epigeal germination.
• Mesocotyl: Structure in cereal seedlings that pushes the coleoptile to the soil surface.
• Auricle: Claw-like appendage at the junction of leaf sheath and blade in grasses.