INORGANIC : macronutrients needed by plants and animals

Question 1

sodium (Na)

Answer 1

plants: maintains osmotic balance of plant cell sap, as well as activates enzymes. (deficiency: stunted growth, weak roots and stems)
animals: regulates osmotic balance in body fluids (deficiency: muscle cramps)

Question 2

potassium (K)

Answer 2

plants: activates various enzymes, regulates opening and closing of the stomata and photosynthesis. ( deficiency: restricted growth and reduced flowering.)
animals: essential for heart function ( deficiency: muscle weakness and heart failure.)

Question 3

calcium (Ca)

Answer 3

plants: ability to unite with toxic organic acids formed during metabolism. (deficiency: stunted growth)
animals: strong healthy bones and teeth. ( deficiency: rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults)

Question 4

phosphorous (P)

Answer 4

plants: flower,fruit and root development (deficiency: chlorosis=lack of essential nutrients prevents chlorophyll formation.)
animals: part of co-enzymes and proteins (deficiency: osteomalacia)

Question 5

nitrogen (N)

Answer 5

plants: component of all proteins and nucleic acids (DNA +RNA) (deficiency: Kwashiorkor, caused by insufficient protein)

Question 6

magnesium (Mg)

Answer 6

plants: important component of the chlorophyll molecule. (deficiency: chlorosis)
animals: muscle and nerve function (deficiency: osteomalacia)