Importance of ions in plants

Question 1

List the two key ions required in plants

Answer 1

• Nitrate ions for protein synthesis
• Magnesium ions for chlorophyll synthesis

Question 2

Explain the effect of NO3 ion deficiency on plant growth

Answer 2

Nitrates are a mineral that combine with glucose to produce AMINO acids, which make PROTEINS. if nitrates are not present in the soil the

-growth of the plant is stunned
-the stems are very weak
-leaves die

Question 3

Explain the effect of Mg ion deficiency on plant growth

Answer 3

Mg forms part of the chlorophyll molecule. If it is not present then the plant cannot photosynthesise effectively, resulting in poor growth and

• yellow leaves

Question 4

Phosphate and potassium

Answer 4

Phosphate is a component of DNA and the cell membranes. Deficiency symptoms include
- poor ROOT growth
- discoloured leaves

Potassium must be present for photosynthesis and for RESPIRATION enzymes to work. Deficiency symptoms include
- poor FLOWER and FRUIT growth
- discoloured leaves.