What is the purpose of washing the seeds in Step 3 of the experiment?

Washing the seeds in Step 3 of the experiment serves to remove any surface contaminants, such as dirt, pathogens, or chemicals, that could affect seed germination or plant growth. This step ensures that the seeds start with a clean slate, allowing for more accurate results in assessing their viability and growth potential. Additionally, it helps to prevent any external factors from influencing the experiment's outcome.